Well, it’s almost here. Google Analytics 4, or GA4 for short, is set to take centre stage as of July 2023, and it’s ready to shake up the analytics game like never before. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into what GA4 has in store for you.
First off, let’s talk timeline. Google Analytics 4 was officially announced in October 2020, however, mid-2023 marks the end of life for Universal Analytics, or GA3. This means that Google will no longer be providing updates or support for GA3, and all users will need to make the switch to GA4 to continue tracking their website data.
Benefits of GA4
Now, let’s talk benefits. GA4 is a completely new approach to web analytics, and it comes with a range of exciting features that are designed to give you a more comprehensive understanding of your website visitors. One of the most significant benefits of GA4 is its ability to track users across multiple devices, including mobile apps. This means you can get a more accurate picture of your visitors’ behaviour, even when they switch from one device to another.
Another benefit of GA4 is its focus on user behaviour, rather than sessions and pageviews. This means you can get a deeper understanding of what your users are doing on your website, including how they interact with your content, how long they stay on each page, and how they navigate through your site. With this information, you can make more informed decisions about how to improve your website and make it more user-friendly.
So, what are the key differences between GA4 and GA3?
Well, for starters, GA4 uses a different data model, which is designed to be more flexible and scalable. GA4 also offers a more streamlined interface, making it easier to find the information you need quickly. And, as I mentioned earlier, GA4 focuses on user behaviour, rather than sessions and pageviews, which is a significant departure from the way GA3 works.
Now, if you’re still using GA3, you might be wondering why you should make the switch to GA4. The answer is simple: GA4 is the future of web analytics. It offers a more comprehensive understanding of your website visitors, and it’s designed to be more flexible and scalable, which means it will be able to keep up with your business as it grows and evolves.
Plus, since GA3 is set to retire mid-2023, you’ll need to make the switch sooner or later. So, why not do it sooner and start reaping the benefits of GA4 right away? If you’re not sure where to start, register here for our upcoming webinar for a special Marketing Collective training to get ready to move to GA4
Key take away
In conclusion, Google Analytics 4 is a game-changer for web analytics, and it’s set to become the new standard in website tracking. With its focus on user behaviour and its flexible data model, GA4 offers a more comprehensive understanding of your website visitors, which can help you make more informed decisions about how to improve your website and make it more user-friendly. So, if you haven’t already made the switch, now is the time to do it. Trust me; your website visitors will thank you for it.
Questions regarding this article? Please email me at mara@robertsdigital.com.au
