Shopify Product Research Without Guessing: A Data-First Workflow

To succeed in e-commerce, relying on guesswork during product research is a losing strategy. Instead, adopting a data-first workflow can provide actionable insights. This approach allows you to analyze live ads, understand market trends, and identify potential winning products. In this article, we will explore how to conduct Shopify product research effectively using real ad examples from Provly, a powerful tool that aggregates data from live ads on platforms like Meta and TikTok.

What Makes a Product a Winner?

A winning product typically shows sustained interest, as indicated by the duration of its advertising campaign and engagement metrics. By examining live ads, sellers can identify products that resonate with consumers and track their performance over time.

Example 1: Mylky

This ad has been live for 26 days and is still active, showcasing a product that allows users to make their own milk at home. The ad emphasizes simplicity and sustainability, appealing to the growing vegan demographic. Mylky’s active engagement is reflected in its 952 active ads, indicating a strong market presence.

Mylky

Running for 26 days

See this ad on Provly →

• Key Features Highlighted:
• Natural ingredients
• No additives
• Reduced packaging waste
• Cost-effective over time

This ad signals that Mylky is likely a winning product worth investigating further.

How Long Should an Ad Run Before You Trust It?

Typically, an ad running for at least three weeks can be a good indicator of a product's viability. This timeframe allows sellers to gauge customer interest and test different messaging strategies.

Example 2: Cuts

The Cuts ad has been active for 22 days, promoting a versatile q-zip product. The ad focuses on comfort and fit, which are crucial factors in the fashion niche. Cuts has 2,822 active ads, suggesting a strong marketing strategy and a diverse product line.

Cuts

The Q-Zip You’ll Wear on Repeat

Running for 22 days

See this ad on Provly →

• Ad Highlights:
• Emphasis on comfort and versatility
• Urgency implied with "before it’s gone"
• Targets active lifestyle consumers

Given its sustained advertising presence, this ad warrants further exploration as a potential winner.

How to Identify Winning Products Using Live Ads

1. Use a Reliable Tool: Start with a tool like Provly to access live ad data from various platforms.
2. Analyze Ad Duration: Look for products with ads running for at least 21 days.
3. Check Active Campaigns: A higher number of active ads from a brand often indicates a successful marketing strategy.
4. Review Ad Content: Evaluate the messaging and visuals to understand what appeals to the target audience.
5. Track Engagement: While engagement metrics like likes and shares are important, ad longevity is a key indicator of product interest.

What Platforms Should You Focus On for Ads?

When researching products, focus primarily on platforms that drive significant traffic to e-commerce sites, such as Meta, TikTok, and Google. Each platform has unique user demographics that can influence buying behavior.

Example 3: Zillow Apartments for Rent

Zillow has been promoting apartment listings through a carousel ad format for 31 days. This ad effectively presents various properties, allowing users to engage with multiple options in a single view. With 12,196 active ads, Zillow demonstrates a robust advertising strategy in the real estate niche.

Zillow Apartments for Rent

Aspen Court

Running for 31 days

See this ad on Provly →

• Notable Features:
• Direct listing information
• Visual presentation of properties
• Clear call-to-action

This ad’s longevity and active presence suggest it might be worth investigating further for insights into successful ad strategies in real estate.

FAQ

How can I determine if a product is worth selling?

To determine if a product is worth selling, analyze the ad's performance metrics such as duration, frequency, and engagement. Tools like Provly can help you access this data and identify trends.

What type of ads are most effective for e-commerce?

Video ads often perform well in e-commerce because they can demonstrate product features and benefits effectively. Carousel ads also allow showcasing multiple products or variations, which can enhance user engagement.

How often should I refresh my ad creatives?

It's advisable to refresh ad creatives every few weeks, especially if you notice a drop in engagement or performance. Testing new visuals and messaging can help maintain interest and relevance.

By leveraging tools like Provly, sellers can conduct thorough product research without guesswork, relying on real-time data to make informed decisions. If you’re ready to enhance your e-commerce strategy, try Provly for free at provly.co.