Hive account@ats-david this is an amzing post hence you earned 100% upvote and a solid follow from me. I agree 100% that we should think strategically on how to add revenue options to steemit in order not to depend on new sign ups AKA Pyramid or Ponzi scheme.
External revenue like advertising will be the best option however it has to be done right in order not to destroy the concept of steemit. Moreover , companies will have interest to advertise in our platform when we reach 1M + active users which is achievable if there is investment in promoting steemit around the world and elimination of sign up waiting time.
Very good idea Hive account@ats-david which should be done with design thinking startegy and implemented .