You must switch to Google Analytics 4 | by Vicky White
What is Google Analytics?
Google Analytics allows you to track and understand your customer’s behaviour, user experience, online content, device functionality and much more. It unlocks the power of understanding how users, visitors, and customers use your website.
Currently you’ll be using Google Analytics Universal but from March 2023 Google are recommending all Analytics users to switch over to GA4 which will roll out in July 2023.
Why? Because if you don’t action now you will lose all your website data history.
Here are some steps you can take to migrate to Google Analytics 4:
Set up a new GA4 property
Start by creating a new GA4 property in your Google Analytics account. This will allow you to collect data separately from your existing Universal Analytics (UA) property.
In the Property column, select the Universal Analytics property that currently collects data for your website. In the Property column, click GA4 Setup Assistant. It’s the first option in the Property column. Click Get started under ‘I want to create a new Google Analytics 4 property’.
Update your website or app tracking code
You’ll need to update your website or app tracking code to the new GA4 code. This will enable you to start collecting data in your new GA4 property. If you are not already using Google Tag Manager, we would suggest setting this up which is particularly beneficial for businesses who are running multiple marketing campaigns.
Set up conversion tracking
Make sure to set up conversion tracking for all the actions you want to track on your website or app, such as purchases or form submissions. You will also have the option to move over your goals from UA into GA4.
Configure data streams
You can configure data streams to send data from different sources, such as websites or mobile apps, to your GA4 property.
Analyse your data
Once you start collecting data in your GA4 property, use the built-in analytics tools to analyse user behaviour and track your business’s performance.
Use both UA and GA4 properties
Consider running both UA and GA4 properties in parallel for a period to ensure a smooth transition and to compare data accuracy.
Train your team
Finally, make sure to train your team on how to use GA4 and its new features, such as machine learning-powered insights, to make informed decisions.
Remember that the migration to GA4 may take time and effort, but it can ultimately provide your business with more robust and insightful analytics data.
Need help?
We have a range of packages available to help you get set up and ready for the migration.
Contact Vicky today to find the right package for your business to unlock GA4 and stay ahead of the game!
The Author: Vicky White
Communications and marketing agency owner.
Boutique marketing agency helping businesses to win new customers by increasing online brand visibility and generating leads/sales.
