Nice topic, Charles ... wish I'd seen it earlier. :P

If I was going list, say ... 5 things I'd recommend to better the odds of success over failure ...

1) Make sure the Marketing system is in place ... and is working.

That's everything from prospect funnel to JV communication to product sale to customer follow up ... all systems are GO, and they get there by ...

2) Testing ... at least the basics.

Put the prospects on a sub list, partner list, paid ezine advertising, etc., through your process and test the copy, price point, retention, etc., at least long enough to ensure that the system is working seamlessly and the product can convert. Not saying you have to look at 100 different variables ... just split test a few key variables and go with your best.

3) Have a complete game plan before bringing partners on board.

Make sure you have a game plan for each step of your pre launch and launch cycles. Promo tools, sales letters, ads, ad graphics, JV partner area ... in general. Offer your partners the tools needed to support the project at every phase ... and keep them at hands reach at all times.

3) Bring JV partners on board at least 4 weeks before launch.

... and make sure you make personal contact with each and every one of them, personally. Successful JV fueled launches are not about bringing 100 random partners on board, plugging them into an autoresponder, and hitting the send button every few days ... it's about building and nurturing relationships of mutual benefit. Introduce yourself to each one ... let them know you are there for them if they wish to brainstorm their participation, put together a unique tool for their subs, and starting to build the trust and group effort that creates a sense of mutual obligation. This is also a way to eliminate freebie seekers and tire kickers ... consider this a time to qualify, for now ... and in the future.

5) Follow Through.

... after launch. Satisfy your customers with prompt service ... make sure you pay your JV partners on time and reciprocate when/if the opportunity arises ... JV relationships are a TWO way street.

Well ... that's it for Mike's "Sunday Sermon", till next week! LOL

Mike