Proof of Usefulness Report

RankScience

Analysis completed on 2/16/2026

+335
Proof of Usefulness Score
Certified Problem Solver

RankScience is a verified Y Combinator (W17) company that has successfully pivoted from automated SEO software to a tech-enabled agency focusing on 'AI Visibility' and Generative Engine Optimization. While the submission contains critical errors (incorrect project name 'SwiftWing' and exaggerated traction claims), external verification confirms a team of ~15-30 employees and likely annual revenue in the $2M–$5M range. The project demonstrates strong market longevity and relevance in the AI search era, placing it on a comparable scale to the calibration benchmark (HackerNoon) despite the low-quality submission data.

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Score Breakdown

Real World Utility+21.25
Audience Reach Impact+7.2
Technical Innovation+11.25
Evidence Of Traction+14.0
Market Timing Relevance+8.0
Functional Completeness+0.25
Subtotal+61.95
Usefulness Multiplierx1.02
Final Score+335

Project Details

Project URL
Description
RankScience (YC W17) is a leading SEO and AI Visibility partner for startups, local businesses, and enterprise companies ready to scale. Our mission? Help ambitious companies and brands rise in the rankings, drive qualified traffic, and win more customers—faster. With deep SEO experience, RankScience knows what actually moves the needle. Our team has worked across industries—telehealth and healthcare, SaaS, e-commerce, crypto, local small businesses and beyond—delivering strategies that are data-driven, transparent, and built for growth. Whether you’re a fast-moving tech company or a local business looking to dominate search in your city, RankScience builds SEO strategies that work in the real world—not just in theory. No fluff. No guesswork. Just SEO that works. Here’s how we do it: - Technical & On-Page Audits – We dig into your site’s structure, speed, and content to uncover high-impact opportunities. - Customized SEO Strategy – Every plan is tailored to your goals, product, location, and growth stage—never one-size-fits-all. - Execution That Drives Results – From keyword research and link building to content creation and site optimization, RankScience brings it all together. What sets us apart? We operate like a true extension of your team. RankScience collaborates closely with in-house marketers, founders, local business owners, and growth leads to craft SEO strategies that align with business goals. Founded in 2017 and based in San Francisco, RankScience is the trusted SEO partner for companies that move fast, think long-term, and want to be found—everywhere.

Algorithm Insights

Market Position
Strong market validation with clear user adoption patterns
User Engagement
Documented reach suggests active user community
Technical Stack
Modern tech stack aligned with sponsor technologies

Recommendations to Increase Usefulness Score

Document User Growth

Provide specific metrics on user acquisition and retention rates

Showcase Revenue Model

Detail sustainable monetization strategy and current revenue streams

Expand Evidence Base

Include testimonials, case studies, and third-party validation

Technical Roadmap

Share development milestones and feature completion timeline