Quick Answer
For search, voice, and "just tell me what to do".
Viral products spike then crash; evergreen products build steady, compounding value over years. A product that sells 10 copies daily for 5 years generates more revenue than one that goes viral and dies in a month. AI helps identify and build products that address permanent human needs, not temporary trends. The goal isn't maximum attention; it's sustainable value creation.
Key Takeaways:
- Viral spikes often lead to crashes
- Evergreen products compound over time
- Permanent problems create lasting markets
- AI helps identify evergreen opportunities
- Sustainable beats spectacular for business health
Playbook
Identify problems that won't go away
Build products addressing fundamental needs
Avoid chasing temporary trends for core products
Design for longevity in structure and content
Monitor and maintain relevance over time
Common Pitfalls
- Chasing viral at the expense of sustainable
- Products too tied to current events
- Neglecting evergreen products for new launches
- Confusing timeless with timeless-looking
Metrics to Track
Revenue consistency over time
Product lifespan and decay rate
Maintenance effort vs. ongoing revenue
Customer acquisition cost over product life
Long-term vs. launch-period revenue ratio
FAQ
Can a product be both viral and evergreen?
Sometimes - if it goes viral while addressing permanent needs. But most viral products are tied to moments that pass. Prioritize evergreen; welcome virality as bonus.
How do I know if a problem is permanent?
Has it existed for decades? Will humans still have this need in 20 years? If yes, it's likely permanent. Avoid problems tied to specific technologies or trends.
Is evergreen boring?
Not boring - sustainable. The excitement of stable revenue outlasts the excitement of a viral spike followed by silence.
Related Reading
Next: browse the hub or explore AI Operations.