Another day, another challenging change. When Google announced the planned introduction of GA4 and the switch from Universal Analytics – this was back before Covid – it just seemed like another hassle we’d put on the long finger while we got through the pandemic. But now the deadline for implementation is coming up fast – 1st July – so Inspiration and other agencies have had to get our heads around the nuances of GA4 and how to implement it effectively for clients. The good news is that for most clients it doesn’t take long. In this article, we’ll walk you through the benefits of transitioning to GA4 and explain how Inspiration can help you to navigate the transition smoothly.
Transitioning from Universal Analytics to GA4 isn’t really a choice – it’s essential in order to future-proofing your analytics. Google has announced the phasing out of Universal Analytics, making GA4 the platform of the future. By making the switch, you gain access to new features and capabilities that provide deeper insights into your customers online activities. This knowledge empowers you to optimise your marketing strategies, engage your audience effectively, and stay ahead of your competition.
But what happens if you don’t?
The Risks of Not Switching to GA4
Data Loss: During the automatic transition, some of your historical data may not be fully transferred to GA4. This could result in losing valuable insights and context when analysing your website or app performance. By manually switching to GA4, you can ensure that all your data is seamlessly transferred, allowing you to have a complete picture of your audience’s behaviour.
Disruption in Reporting: GA4 has a different reporting structure and terminology compared to Universal Analytics. Without a manual switch, you might experience confusion and difficulties when trying to compare and analyse data accurately.
Learning Curve: GA4 introduces a new interface, data model, and features. If you delay the switch, you might find yourself facing a steeper learning curve when you’re forced to adapt to the new system abruptly.
Lost Opportunity: GA4 offers advanced tracking capabilities, powerful analysis features, and deeper data insights. By not switching manually, you delay accessing these benefits and limit your ability to make data-driven marketing decisions.
Customisation and Configuration: GA4 provides greater flexibility for customisation and event tracking. By manually switching, you can tailor GA4 to your specific business needs, tracking custom events and user interactions that matter most to you.
Industry Standard: As GA4 becomes the standard for Google Analytics, it’s essential to stay up to date with the latest advancements. Delaying the switch may hinder your ability to integrate seamlessly with other Google Marketing Platform products and keep pace with industry trends.
Google Analytics 4 Launch Date – 1st July
Universal Analytics 3 will officially stop tracking your audience on July 1st, 2023. After that, you will need to have a Google Analytics 4 account ready if you want to see new data. That’s right, you don’t have much time to get this sorted!
Partner with Inspiration and we can help implement GA4 effectively – and quickly.
Our team of experts is well-versed in GA4 and we’ll handle the technicalities, ensuring a smooth and successful implementation, while you focus on growing your business.
We’ve outlined the risks of not implementing GA4 but what are the benefits of going ahead with it?
Google Analytics 4 Benefits
Unleash Advanced Tracking Capabilities
With GA4, you gain access to cross-device tracking, which means you can understand how your customers interact with your business across different devices and touchpoints.
Enhanced Data Collection for Deeper Insights
GA4 harnesses the power of machine learning to collect and analyse data from various sources, including apps and websites. Armed with this information, you can make smarter, data-driven decisions to drive your marketing strategies forward.
A Shift in Focus: Event-Based Data Model
GA4 introduces an event-based data model that focuses on user interactions such as clicks, page views, and video plays. This model provides flexibility, allowing you to track custom events that align with your specific business goals.
Prioritising Privacy and Consent
In an era where privacy is paramount, GA4 takes user privacy seriously. It offers options for consent management and data control, ensuring compliance with evolving privacy regulations. With GA4, you can build trust with your customers while maintaining the integrity of their data.
Make the Switch to GA4
You may not be keen to worship at the altar of Google, but in terms of online marketing – Google dominates – there’s not much choice! Inspiration can minimise the hassle in this switchover and implement GA4 in line with best practice.
