Google has put deadlines in place for all users to switch to Google Analytics 4:
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💡 IMPORTANT: To continue using Google Analytics beyond these dates, you will have to use a GA4 property. It will no longer be optional like it was until this point.
It is true that in the past Google has allowed users to continue using legacy code and implementation methods to collect data even when a new version is released. What makes this time different?
The updates made over the course of the last 15 or so years have been relatively small updates in comparison to GA4’s update. During this time; how Google collected, processed, and reported the data stayed relatively the same. GA4 is a complete paradigm shift in how Google is collecting data and presenting it in the interface. People interact with apps and websites very differently than they did 5 years ago, let alone 15 years ago!
It only makes sense for Google to update how they are tracking users’ behavior.
I like to compare the past updates to getting a new paint job, fixing the air conditioning, or even getting a new sound system for your car. These updates improve your driving experience, but none of them change how the car runs or improves its lifespan.
GA4 is like replacing the engine in the car. You will notice improvements in how the car runs in many aspects from driving comfort to fuel consumption – it is the same car but at the same time, a completely new experience. An upgrade like this could double or triple the car’s lifespan and efficiency.
Seer recommends approaching the migration like you are onboarding a completely new platform. Because GA4 is so different from Universal Analytics, it will take time to get used to using it.
Additionally, because it’s a separate Property type vs. Universal Analytics you will not have historical data available to you until you specifically collect it using GA4 tags.Â
If not already established, your immediate action item should be to create a sense of urgency in your organization to get a GA4 strategy and implementation started.
Below is a basic checklist that can help you work through a GA4 migration in a strategic way:
💡 IMPORTANT: As you can see, this migration is not one that should be taken lightly and should not be put off until the last minute.
Our best advice is to start now with the basics and then develop a strategy for a full implementation as soon as possible. It will be a significant amount of work to stand up. Additionally, your team, boss, and partners need time to learn the new interface before they are forced to report out of it.
Migrating seems completely overwhelming. We know and understand that.
However, we believe that this shift to GA4 is a good switch for everyone. There are many benefits to GA4 over Universal Analytics:
This is a great opportunity for organizations to ask themselves if their current Google Analytics implementation is giving them everything they need and to rebuild it stronger than ever before.
Seer is excited to help our clients navigate the migration and to see what they do with the blank canvas Google has presented.
Source: www.seerinteractive.com, originally published on 2022-03-16 08:07:37
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