Which key performance indicator (KPI) provides the most accurate insight into the long-term health and sustainability of a newly created subreddit?

The most accurate KPI is the ratio of returning active users to total subscribers, tracked consistently over time. This metric reflects the subreddit's ability to retain users and foster a consistently engaged community, beyond just attracting initial subscribers. While subscriber count provides a snapshot of potential audience size, it doesn't indicate how many users are actively participating or finding value in the subreddit. A high subscriber count with low active participation suggests a lack of engagement and long-term viability. The ratio of returning active users, defined as users who regularly contribute (post, comment, vote), to total subscribers provides a more realistic picture of community health. It indicates the percentage of subscribers who are actively invested in the subreddit and contributing to its growth. Consistent tracking over time reveals trends in user retention and engagement, allowing moderators to identify potential issues and adjust their strategies accordingly. An increase in this ratio suggests that the subreddit is successfully fostering a thriving community, while a decrease indicates potential problems with content, moderation, or community culture. For example a ratio of 10% returning active users out of 1000 subs is far better than 1% returning active users out of 10000 subs.