As a digital marketer, tracking website performance and user behavior is why I’ve been using Universal Analytics for years. However, with the forced migration to Google Analytics 4, I decided to take the leap and explore the other side of the new privacy-centric analytics suite. In this blog post, I’ll share the differences between Google Analytics 4 and Universal Analytics, the benefits of upgrading to Google Analytics 4, how to set it up, and more.
Introduction to Google Analytics 4 and Universal Analytics
Google Analytics has been around for over 15 years, and Universal Analytics has been the most widely used version until the release of Google Analytics 4. Universal Analytics uses cookies to track user behavior and provides valuable insights into website performance. However, it only provides a partial picture of user behavior across devices and channels.
Google Analytics 4, on the other hand, uses a new tracking code that uses machine learning to fill in the gaps in user behavior data. As a result, it also provides a more comprehensive view of user behavior across devices and channels.
Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is built for a cookieless browser future.
What are the differences between Google Analytics 4 and Universal Analytics?
One of the most significant differences between Google Analytics 4 and Universal Analytics is the tracking method. Google Analytics 4 uses a new tracking mechanic that factors in machine learning to fill in the gaps in user behavior data. It also provides a more comprehensive view of user behavior across devices and channels.
Another difference is the dramatic change to the user interface. Google Analytics 4 has a new user interface that’s more intuitive and agile than the previous versions. It also provides more detailed reports on user behavior and website performance.
Migrating from Universal Analytics to Google Analytics 4
Migrating from Universal Analytics to Google Analytics 4 may seem daunting, but it’s relatively easy. The first step is to create a new Google Analytics 4 account. Then, you’ll need to set up a new property and add the tracking code to your website. You can also import data from your Universal Analytics account to your new Google Analytics 4 account.
Once you’ve migrated your data, you can use Google Analytics 4 to track user behavior and website performance. However, keep in mind that the tracking mechanisms have changed, so you may need to adjust your conversion events and goals, so some bugs and issues may need to be resolved.
Understanding Google Analytics 4 properties
Google Analytics 4 has several new and old features that allow you to track user behavior on your site and apps while viewing performance in more detail. One of the most significant advantages of GA4 is that it’s built for a multi-device world and allows you to track user behavior across devices and channels.
Another retained advantage here are events, which allow you to track user actions on your website. Actions that create Events can include clicks, form submissions, and more. By tracking these actions, you can gain valuable insights into how users interact with your website.
Benefits of migrating to Google Analytics 4
There are several benefits to upgrading to Google Analytics 4. One of the most important is the ability to track user behavior across devices and channels with the enhanced Firebase integration. The integration meshes well and provides a more comprehensive view of user behavior, allowing you to make more informed decisions about website design and marketing strategies.
One nerdy advantage of the new explore interface is its user-friendly drag-and-drop feature for creating pivot tables and charts. Compared to previous versions, it is more accessible and enjoyable to use. This improved interface aids in locating crucial data and making informed decisions regarding website performance and marketing strategies.
How to set up Google Analytics 4
Setting up Google Analytics 4 is relatively easy. The first step is to create a new Google Analytics 4 account. Then, you’ll need to set up a new property and add the tracking code to your website.
Once you’ve set up your Google Analytics 4 account, you can start tracking user behavior and website performance.
Google Analytics 4 and Looker integration
One of the most exciting features of Google Analytics 4 is its integration with Looker. Many marketers and analysts highlight that GA4 was meant to be used with Looker. Looker is a data visualization tool that allows you to create custom reports and dashboards based on your Google Analytics 4 data.
By integrating Google Analytics 4 with Looker, you can gain even more valuable insights into user behavior and website performance. You can also create custom reports and dashboards tailored to your specific needs.
Using Google Analytics 4 for better data-driven insights
Google Analytics 4 provides more detailed data on user behavior and website performance than previous versions. By using this data, you can gain valuable insights into how users interact with your website and make informed decisions about website design and marketing strategies.
For example, you can track user behavior across devices and channels to gain a more comprehensive view of user behavior. You can also track specific actions that users take on your website to gain insights into how users interact with your website.
Common Misconceptions about Google Analytics 4
There are several common misconceptions about Google Analytics 4. One of the most common is that it’s difficult to set up and migrate from Universal Analytics. However, as we’ve discussed, setting up Google Analytics 4 is relatively easy, and migrating from Universal Analytics is simple.
Another misconception is that Google Analytics 4 is too complex for small businesses. However, Google Analytics 4 is designed to be easy to use and intuitive, regardless of the size of your business. It has high-level reporting featuring easy-to-digest tidbits about the site on the front page and the ability to slice and visualize real-time data just one click away.
Conclusion – Why migrating to Google Analytics 4 is worth your time
Upgrading to Google Analytics 4 is worth your time because it provides a more comprehensive view of user behavior and website performance. It also has a new user interface that’s more intuitive and easier to use than previous versions.
While some bugs and issues may need to be resolved, Google Analytics 4 Nevertheless, is a powerful tool to help you make more informed decisions about website design and marketing strategies. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to upgrade to Google Analytics 4 and gain valuable insights into user behavior and website performance.
Ready to upgrade to Google Analytics 4? Contact us today to learn how we can help you make the switch and gain valuable insights into user behavior and website performance.
