Beginning July 1st, 2023, Google will discontinue Universal Analytics and switch over to Google Analytics 4. On this date, UA will cease to process data, and any remaining reports will only be viewable to users for a limited time. From that point on, new data can only be created through the use of Google Analytics 4 properties. We urge you to switch over to Google Analytics as soon as possible so you can become familiar with it. This guide should help you transition seamlessly between the two systems.
What is Google Analytics 4?
To understand Google Analytics 4, you have to know what a “property” is as it relates to Google marketing tools. A property is a set of reports created through Google Analytics to help you get the most out of your site or app. In the past, you could create a Google Analytics 4 property and a Universal Analytics property simultaneously. In fact, Google encouraged users to utilize both types of reports. Now, however, Google Analytics 4 will be the primary method for accessing reports.
Why is Google Analytics 4 Better than Universal Analytics?
As you might imagine, Google has made this decision for a reason. Technology continues to progress quickly, and it’s crucial for businesses to keep up. Customer expectations shift, regulations change, and privacy standards are constantly updated. Today, users access the Internet on multiple devices, and in a variety of unique ways. Moving forward, therefore, analytics reports need to adapt to our ever-changing world. Google Analytics 4 is the vehicle for that change.
There are several reasons why Google Analytics 4 is the preferred choice compared to Universal Analytics:
- It’s more secure, innovative and future-oriented
- It uses machine learning to explore insights about the customer experience
- It works well with Google’s advertising platforms and services (Google Ads, Search Ads 360, Display & Video 360)
- It produces improved advertising campaigns with a higher return on investment (ROI)
- It will automatically inform you about upcoming data trends through alerts
- It gives advertisers a better understanding of how customers engage with their business
Additionally, you’ll be able to use predictive metrics with Google Analytics 4. As a result, you’ll be able to predict how likely it is that a user visiting your site or app will make a purchase within 7 days. With churn probability, business owners will also be able to predict whether or not a recent visitor will return to the site or app within 7 days. Ultimately, this will help advertisers learn more about their potential customers and reach new audiences.
Why Should I Switch to Google Analytics 4 Now?
Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to procrastinate this switch because it won’t occur for another year. You will also be able to continue using Universal Analytics during that time. However, you’d be much better off getting started now. Come next year, you’ll want to have data from Google Analytics 4 in place. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait to be able to use this vital information. Business owners will be ahead of the game if they start now, and that’s what GA4 is all about. The system is designed with the future in mind. Plus, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with a new way of doing things.
How Can I Get Started with Google Analytics 4?
First, you’ll have to open an account and set up a Google Analytics 4 property. If you’ve already done that and you currently have a Universal Analytics property, you must add a Google Analytics 4 property to your account. Click on “GA4 Setup Assistant” to create this property to beginning gathering data with Google Analytics 4. You can leave your Universal Analytics property as-is and allow it to keep collecting data.
If your web builder asks for a “UA” ID and won’t allow you to enter a “G” ID, you’ll still be able to access Google Analytics 4. Simply copy/paste your global site tag into your web builder’s HTML to complete the process.
From there, you can use the Setup Assistant to organize your Google Analytics 4 property. As soon as you start collecting data, you can:
- Search for, modify and share reports
- View data accumulating in real time
- Take a Skillshop course to learn more about Google Analytics 4
- Receive additional assistance with Google Analytics 4 Training and Support
Google has also provided their own helpful guide to help users transition to Google Analytics 4. For more specific information or answers to your most pressing questions, we recommend taking advantage of their literature.
How Gauge Digital Media Can Help You Transition to Google Analytics 4
Do you need help switching over to Google Analytics 4? Gauge Digital Media specializes in digital marketing strategies, and we can assist you in a number of ways. Our specialists can direct your ad campaigns, display ads across Google AdWords and Bing Ads, and collect data to meet your brand goals. No matter what you wish to accomplish, our experts can help expand your reach. With us, you’ll won’t have to worry about complications that may arise from a change to GA4. We’ll manage your reports so you’re ready for whatever the future brings.
Some of our other services include:
- Web Design
- Search Engine Optimization
- Pay Per Click (PPC) Advertising
- Graphic Design
- Social Media Marketing
- E-mail Marketing
Do you want to know more about what we can do for you? Fill out this short form on our site and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Together, let’s achieve your highest goals!
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Working with a professional digital marketing company is the best way to make the most of your website and all that Facebook Pixel, LinkedIn ads, Google Analytics and other digital advertising platforms have to offer. To learn more about the best digital marketing strategies for your company and reach a bigger audience than ever before, work with Gauge Digital Media. For a quote or to schedule a call, contact us at (443) 376-7709.
