I've always prefer to deal direct with operators. I used to work with Tradedoubler and Affiliate Window back in the day and they were terrible. However, I found a casino network that offers better commissions than I can negotiate by myself, eg, I get 35% direct but can get 40% via a network. So my question is, if I work with the operator already, shall I give them chance to match the offer or just swap banners over?
With new operators its a no brainer. Better commission, no affiliate managers to deal with and a single payment from someone not called Worldpay.