Received an email about your trusted Google Analytics sunsetting and being replaced by GA4 in July 2023? Feeling concerned?
If you've received an email notifying you of the impending farewell of the familiar Google Analytics, making way for GA4 in July 2023, it's natural to feel a bit uneasy. However, there's no need to panic, as Silex Tech's SEO experts have crafted a guide to navigate the GA4 properties smoothly.
Understanding GA4 vs. Universal Analytics
The roots of the widely used web tracking service, Universal Analytics, trace back to 2005, evolving into its recognizable form in 2012. While Universal Analytics thrived in an era dominated by desktops and cookies, GA4 emerges as a response to evolving privacy concerns and a multi-platform lifestyle.
GA4 introduces enhanced privacy controls, directly addressing the phasing out of third-party cookies by the end of 2023. It measures every interaction as an event, offering a more detailed understanding of the customer journey compared to UA.
Why GA4?
GA4 leverages advanced machine learning, promising smarter insights for informed business decisions. It supports data collection across various platforms, ensuring a comprehensive view of customer journeys. As Google's primary focus for new properties, GA4 stands as a future-proofed analytics tool with granular privacy controls.
Adapting to GA4
Contrary to the notion of having ample time to switch, GA4 doesn't allow data migration from UA. By transitioning early, you can collect a year's worth of data on both platforms, facilitating a seamless switch and ensuring year-on-year progress analysis.
Embracing GA4 promptly is crucial, considering the dramatic changes in reporting structures and data presentation. GA4's reporting structure and data presentation differ significantly, requiring your digital team to familiarize themselves with the new setup.
Migration Steps
- Set Up Your GA4 Property: Log into your UA account, where a notification or the 'GA4 Setup Assistant' in 'Admin' guides you to create a new GA4 property. For gtag.js users, there's an option to enable data collection using existing tags.
- Connect the New Property: Link the new property to your existing account and connect data sources/views, such as Google Ads or Search Console.
- Event Tracking Setup: GA4 offers granular event tracking. Set up events directly in GA4 or through GTM Event Tag, providing flexibility and control.
- Ecommerce Tracking Setup: Implement data layers with your developers to enable Monetisation reports.
- Check Your Data: Compare GA4 data against your current UA account, ensuring a seamless transition.
If the technical aspects seem overwhelming, don't worry. Silex Tech's digital specialists can assist you in maximizing GA4. For expert guidance, contact shiv@silex.co.in today.