I've spent a long time researching the various online content networks when I know I should be writing content instead, and I assume that I am not alone with this problem. Details can be surprisingly difficult to find, but here is what I have managed to discover so far.

eHow

I started out with eHow because they offered to pay me upfront. EHow actually has two different payment systems. If you sign up through the front page, you are only paid a share of ad revenue. This share is quite small. For example, I have written over 200 articles for eHow, starting about a year ago, and I now receive about $30 per month in ad revenue.

On the other hand, you can apply to Demand Studios. If you choose this option you will probably wait a long time and maybe never hear back from them at all, but if you do you will be paid $15 per article to write for eHow. You will not receive any additional ad revenue. One catch is that title duplication is not allowed, a specific format is required, and almost all the obvious titles have been taken, so a lot of the work is trying to come up with very unusual "how-to" topics that no one has thought of yet.

Suite 101

I recently signed up for Suite 101 because I heard that they had a good reputation and I wanted to give the ad revenue model a try. They require an application process, because they like to think of themselves as a highly professional site. However, if you write with good grammar and exactly according to their style guide, you will probably be approved.

I wrote two articles for them and got an abysmally low number of page views. Sure, it might have increased had I written more articles, but I was not encouraged. Other problems with Suite 101 include misleading published policies about when writers will receive certain bonuses, exclusive rights to published articles, and an overall unappealing site. It's clean-looking, but sterile, and there are no large images on the site.

One nice feature about Suite 101 is that they pick a feature writer for each major content section. So, if you demonstrate expertise and commitment, and you subject isn't already taken, the extra exposure and perks of this position could make it worthwhile.

About.com

Although I've heard quiet complaints about the management from About.com writers, it remains a sort of holy grail for content writers. This is because new writers get an exclusive contract for their topic, have minimal volume requirements, and are guaranteed a minimum of $725 per month for the first two years. The main downside of About.com is that it's extremely competetive, and if you're seriously considered for a position you begin with a grueling two week try-out against other applicants, which is completely unpaid except for the winner.

Associated Content

I couldn't get much past the first page of Associated Content. The site may be fine, but it looks like a big mess, which was a turnoff for me. Also, the terms were very vague. Some writers may receive a small upfront payment for articles, but it was unclear under what circumstances that could happen.

HubPages

I'm quite new to HubPages, but I joined recently because I really like the transparency of the policy, the friendliness of the community, and the design and features of the site. I've had an encouraging number of page views for my first articles, so I remain hopeful. When I find out how this works out I'll post a new hub on the topic, assuming I'm still here.

Squidoo

I have to admit I don't know much about Squidoo. It seems somewhat similar to HubPages and looks like a nice site, so I'm definitely interested to know about anyone's experiences there.

The Bottom Line

Some writers recommend publishing the same content on HubPages, Squidoo, Associated Content and elsewhere, but this is probably counterproductive because having duplicate content is likely to mess with the Google ratings of all your pages. Different sites may be more appropriate for different writers, but the best bet is probably to choose one network and create as much quality content there as possible.