Why do things go viral on YouTube? A select-few video posts somehow manage to achieve millions of hits

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Some videos go viral on YouTube, a social media user platform which attracts more than 100 new uploads every minute. This article examines factors that play a key role in the virality phenomenon and – without considering actual content – looks at why some videos take off in quite extraordinary ways.

Practical implications

The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Citation

(2015), "Why do things go viral on YouTube? A select-few video posts somehow manage to achieve millions of hits", Strategic Direction, Vol. 31 No. 3, pp. 21-23. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-01-2015-0005