Published 28 June 2024 in Your Artfundi Website
We are thrilled to introduce you to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), the next generation of Google's web analytics platform. Whether you are currently using Universal Analytics (UA) or considering implementing web analytics for the first time, this support article will provide you with valuable insights on how GA4 can revolutionize your data tracking and analysis, empowering you to make informed decisions for your business. GA4 vs. Universal Analytics (UA): Google Analytics 4 introduces a new approach to tracking user behavior, focusing on events and user-centric data. While UA primarily uses pageviews and sessions, GA4 tracks user interactions and events across multiple platforms, including websites and mobile apps.
Retaining UA Data: It's essential to note that GA4 is not a direct upgrade from UA. It operates on a different data model, which means historical data from UA cannot be automatically transferred to GA4. However, you can use Universal Analytics alongside GA4 to preserve your existing data while benefiting from GA4's enhanced features until Universal Analytics is discontinued on July 1.
Steps to Take Before GA4 Implementation: Data Access: To maintain access to your Universal Analytics data, it’s crucial to download or export your data using the methods outlined in this article. BigQuery Integration: If you’re using the BigQuery integration to export historical data from your Universal Analytics 360 property, act before June 30, 2024. For more information, click here.
Attribution Projects: Any Attribution Projects associated with Google Analytics will be deleted. Learn more For Clients Currently Using Universal Analytics (UA): Google Analytics 4 is replacing Universal Analytics. On July 1, 2024 all standard Universal Analytics properties will stop processing data. The benefits of upgrading to GA4 and the impact it will have on your analytics tracking: Enhanced Insights: GA4 offers advanced features that provide a deeper understanding of user behavior, including cross-platform tracking, machine learning capabilities, streamlined event tracking, and robust data analysis and reporting. Upgrading to GA4 will empower you to gain valuable insights and optimize your digital strategies. Parallel Tracking: Data Migration: While historical data from UA cannot be automatically transferred to GA4, the transition process provides an opportunity to evaluate your data tracking needs and optimize your tracking setup in GA4. Our team will guide you through the migration process and ensure a seamless transition. For Clients Not Currently Using Universal Analytics (UA): If you are not currently utilizing UA or any web analytics tool, GA4 presents an excellent opportunity to start tracking and analyzing your website or app data. Here's why GA4 is the ideal choice: Comprehensive Tracking: GA4 allows you to track user interactions across various platforms, including websites and mobile apps. You can gain a holistic view of user behavior and understand how they engage with your digital assets. Advanced Features: Future-Proof Analytics: By starting with GA4, you position your business for future growth and advancements in analytics. GA4's modern data model and features are designed to adapt to evolving industry trends and provide valuable insights for years to come. Getting Started with Google Analytics 4: Create a GA4 property: If you don’t currently have an account, or need steps on how to set up the property, click here for ease of reference. Obtain the GA4 Property ID: Click on the data stream for the property. Copy your “Measurement ID”. Paste the ID into your Artfundi account: In the Left Sidebar, click on ‘Website’’. Once it expands, click on ‘Site Scripts’. To the top-right, click on ‘New Script’. From the dropdown menu, select ‘Google Analytics 4’. Paste the ID into the ‘Property ID’ field, and click the button to save. In order to make optimal use of Google Analytics, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the GA4 interface, including its reporting features, user-centric reports, the Analysis Hub, and machine learning insights. Google provides extensive documentation and resources to help you navigate GA4 effectively. For ease of reference to the Google Analytics Help Center, click here
Understanding the Transition:
During the transition period until Universal Analytics is discontinued on July 1, we recommend running both UA and GA4 in parallel. This allows you to preserve your existing UA data while gradually collecting data in GA4, ensuring continuity in your analytics reporting.
GA4 offers powerful features such as machine learning insights, event-based tracking, and a user-centric reporting approach. These features enable you to analyze user journeys, measure conversions, and optimize your marketing efforts effectively.
This property will serve as the foundation for tracking data in GA4. Whether you are currently using UA or starting fresh, you will need to create a new GA4 property within your Google Analytics account. During this process, you will receive a unique Measurement ID for your GA4 property.
