Google Analytics 4 (GA4) : What You Need To Know
Get ready for a game-changing update in the world of web analytics! Google Analytics 4, also known as GA4, is Google’s latest and greatest update to its analytics platform. With GA4, you’ll experience a whole new level of insights and reporting that differ from what you’re accustomed to with Universal Analytics properties. But here’s the catch: starting from July 1, 2023, standard Universal Analytics properties will no longer process data. Don’t worry, though. You’ll still be able to access your Universal Analytics reports for a certain period after July 1, 2023. However, if you want to continue receiving new data and leveraging the cutting-edge features of GA4, it’s time to make the switch. Luckily, you’re not alone in this transition. Backyard Studios is here to make the entire process painless and hassle-free. So, let’s dive in and discover the exciting world of GA4 together!
What is GA4?
GA4, short for Google Analytics 4, is the next generation of Analytics offered by Google. It brings a host of new features and capabilities to help businesses gain deeper insights into their website and app performance. Here’s what you need to know:
Collects Data from Websites and Apps: GA4 is designed to collect event-based data from both websites and apps. This holistic approach allows you to understand the complete customer journey across various platforms.
Event-Based Data: Unlike its predecessor, GA4 focuses on event-based data rather than session-based data. This means that instead of analyzing user sessions, GA4 tracks individual interactions or events on your website or app. It provides a more granular understanding of user behavior.
Privacy Controls: GA4 prioritizes user privacy by offering cookieless measurement. This means that you can gather insights without relying on cookies. Additionally, GA4 incorporates behavioral and conversion modeling to provide valuable information while respecting user privacy.
Predictive Capabilities: GA4 goes beyond basic reporting and offers predictive capabilities. It uses machine learning algorithms to provide guidance and insights, eliminating the need for complex modeling and analysis.
Integrations with Media Platforms: GA4 allows direct integrations with various media platforms. This enables you to drive actions and measure the impact of your marketing efforts directly within your website or app.
GA4 is a forward-looking analytics solution that combines data from websites and apps, focuses on event-based tracking, prioritizes user privacy, offers predictive capabilities, and integrates seamlessly with media platforms. It opens up new possibilities for businesses to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions.
How Do I Switch
Ready to switch from Universal Analytics to Google Analytics 4 (GA4)? Don’t worry, we’re here to help you through the process smoothly.
There are two options you can currently take in terms of setting up the new GA4:
Automatic Setup: The GA4 Setup Assistant will do the heavy lifting for you. It will automatically add a GA4 property alongside your existing Universal Analytics property when July comes. You can continue collecting data in your Universal Analytics property for a limited time, but a permanent switch will have to be made to GA4.
Manual Setup: If you want to get ahead, you can manually add the GA4 property to your site now before the deadline in July.
Whether you wait for Google to automatically add the GA4 property to your account or you do it manually, Backyard Studios will be here to help seamlessly integrate the new GA4 analytics code into your website, ensuring accurate tracking and data collection.
Once everything is set up, you can start enjoying GA4’s enhanced features. GA4 provides a more comprehensive and user-centric approach to analytics. It offers deeper insights into user behavior, cross-platform tracking, and AI-powered insights.
After this you’re all set with your transition from Universal Analytics to GA4! Remember, having accurate data is crucial for informed decision-making, and GA4 opens up exciting opportunities for deeper insights into your website’s performance.
At Backyard Studios, we’re not your typical digital marketing agency. We’re a team of tech-savvy wizards who specialize in bringing businesses to life online. From website design and development to website hosting, SEO, PPC advertising, digital ads, email marketing, social media management, content marketing, photo and video, branding, print, analytics, and reputation management, we’ve got all the digital tricks up our sleeves to make your brand stand out. Whether you’re a small business just starting out or a large corporation looking to take your online presence to the next level, our team of experts will work with you to create a customized strategy that meets your unique needs. So come on, let’s take your business to new heights with Backyard Studios!
