Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is the latest version that combines data from websites and apps. It replaces App and Web and is the upgraded version of Universal Analytics (UA). Businesses should set up GA4 alongside UA accounts to avoid data loss. GA4 relies less on cookies, addressing GDPR concerns. It offers stable industry changes, tracking user journeys comprehensively.
With automated insights and improved event tracking, transitioning to GA4 before July 1, 2023, is recommended for businesses with websites or apps. Google Analytics, 4 migration services, can help you simplify the process of migration for your brand.
Now, in this blog, we will explore the benefits of GA4 migration, how to do it, and the process of preparing for it.
Advantages Of GA4 Migration
Migrating to Google Analytics 4 (GA4) can bring about several advantages for online stores using platforms like BigCommerce, Wix, Magento, and so on.
One notable benefit is the improved data model, which means the way information is organized and processed becomes more effective and accurate.
Another significant advantage is the enhanced tracking and reporting of user behavior. GA4 allows businesses to understand how users interact with their websites across various devices and channels, providing a comprehensive view of customer engagement.
Privacy is a top concern, and GA4 addresses this by offering better control over user data privacy. This ensures that businesses can uphold ethical and legal standards in handling customer information.
For store owners, the ability to track and analyze customer lifetime value (LTV) is crucial. GA4 provides tools to assess the long-term value of customers, aiding in strategic decision-making for customer retention and satisfaction.
Event tracking and measurement customization become more straightforward with GA4, simplifying the process for businesses to monitor specific actions and behaviors that matter most to them.
Cross-domain tracking capabilities are also improved, allowing businesses to gain a better understanding of user journeys that span multiple domains or websites.
When it comes to e-commerce, GA4 offers enhanced tracking and reporting features, providing deeper insights into sales and transactions and helping businesses optimize their online shopping experiences.
Real-time data and insights are crucial in the fast-paced digital world. GA4 grants businesses access to real-time information, enabling quick and informed decision-making.
Integration with Google Ads and other Google Marketing Platform tools is another advantage, making it easier for businesses to manage and optimize their online advertising efforts seamlessly.
Making the switch to GA4 not only brings about these benefits but also provides a competitive advantage over those who have not migrated. Staying ahead in the digital landscape is essential for long-term success in online business.
Understanding these advantages emphasizes the importance of migrating to GA4. Now, let's explore the next steps in preparing for the migration process.
How To Prepare For GA4 Migration?
Getting ready for GA4 Migration involves a few important steps as you move to Google Analytics 4. Here's what you need to do:
1. Check your Universal Analytics:
First, take a look at what you were keeping track of in Universal Analytics. Make a list of all the things you were measuring, like metrics and data. This helps you be ready when you start using GA4. Make a document with details about your accounts, properties, tags, and such.
2. Figure out Goals & KPIs:
Google Analytics is mainly for tracking how users behave. When you switch to GA4, think about what data is important for measuring your goals. Look at what data you are already tracking and what you are not. This helps you know what GA4 needs to track for your goals.
3. Check if it works together:
Make sure the code on your website that tracks data works well with GA4. You need to see if it follows GA4's rules. Check that your website's tracking code is up-to-date and set up correctly. If you get help from a conversion rate optimization services provider, you don't need to worry about this step.
4. Start a new GA4 "property":
Begin the move by creating a new GA4 property in your Google Analytics account. Connect it to your current account to keep your old data. If you want to keep the data separate, create a new GA4 property without connecting it to the old one. Make sure the property is set up correctly, including how long it keeps data and, if needed, how it tracks across different websites.
5. Set up the data stream:
Once your properties are set, the next step is to set up the data stream, which means creating a new way to collect the information you want to track. To get the most out of GA4, you can also set up filters and custom details. Keep an eye on the data stream to make sure it's collecting what you want, and make changes if needed.
By doing these steps carefully, you make sure that moving to GA4 goes smoothly. It helps your analytics match your business goals and collects the right data for making decisions.
Now, move further toward the process of migrating to GA4.
Process Of Migrating To Google Analytics 4
This is the process you have to follow to quickly migrate your business to GA4.
Phase 1: Develop and release your GA4 property
Start by making a new Google Analytics 4 (GA4) property. This is important because GA4 won't automatically bring in your old data from Universal Analytics (UA). It only starts tracking from the day you create it. Try to finish this, but if you can't, do it as soon as possible. Use Google Tag Manager to add the GA4 tracking tag to your site. Keep an eye on your new property in the next few days to make sure it's tracking traffic data properly.
Phase 2: Identify your essential goods
In GA4, it doesn't automatically copy your old tracking items like goals or events from UA. So, list down important tracking items like events, goals, content groupings, custom dimensions, referral exclusions, product link connections, and audiences. Decide what to keep, throw away, or create new. Remember, in GA4, goals are now event-based. Also, content groupings are set up differently now, using page tagging. Don't forget to consider changes for goals that aren't event-based.
Phase 3: Start moving specific things over to GA4
Now that you have your list start setting things up in GA4. Check for any goals that Google has automatically added. Use Google Tag Manager for an easier setup. Goals are now called "Conversions" and work differently. Start by moving event-based goals, then go to destination-based and engagement goals. Content groupings are now set up through page tagging. Custom dimensions and metrics need to be set in both the interface and code. Referral exclusions still exist but are in a different place. Reconnect product links to your new GA4 property and recreate audiences with the changed GA4 terms.
Phase 4: Examine your belongings
After setting up your tracking items in GA4, double-check to make sure they are working properly. Look into things like ecommerce, conversions, event tracking, and more. If there are any issues, try to find and fix them as soon as you can.
Phase 5: Choose a date to switch to GA4 as your exclusive point of information
Decide on a date when GA4 will be the main source for your organization's data and reporting. It's a good idea to wait until you have data from GA4 for a whole year, especially because GA4 is different from UA.
Phase 6: Save your UA information
Get ready for Google to delete all old data. Plan to save the data you regularly need. Think about how often you use this data, like every month. Keep in mind that saving data using the UA interface can be a bit slow. Be prepared to use your archived data if you need it later on.
Conclusion
Thus, in this blog, we have explained the basics of GA4 and why businesses should consider migrating to it. Additionally, we go through the migration process and how to prepare for it. For excellent results, you should consider opting for Google Analytics 4 migration services from MakkPress Technologies, an eCommerce marketing company specializing in building brand digital stores, boosting business presence, and swiftly switching to other platforms.
With MakkPress Technologies, you can ensure optimal results and better performance for your business.
Comments