The countdown is on for the much-talked-about switchover to GA4, coming this July. What exactly is it? Why do we need it? And how can we make sure that we are prepared? Take a few minutes to understand how this affects your business and how to get started. It could save you years of data!
GA4: What is it?
Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is the latest evolution of Google's analytics tool. It is an entirely new application and different from Universal Analytics (UA) which most of us have come to know and love.
UA has been a reporting standard for many years, so upgrading is daunting for many of us! The good news is that GA4 will provide a more insightful, customizable, and future-proofed reporting platform, AND we are here to walk you through exactly how to quickly switch over for success.
GA4: Why do we need it?
Website analytics is becoming increasingly important in understanding our audiences, and future trends in leadership suggest a move toward data-driven decision-making. GA4 highlights the necessary insights to make those decisions.
GA4 is a robust reporting tool with new and compelling features such as:
Enhanced analysis and recommendation capabilities with AI and machine learning
Greater flexibility and customization to match business needs
Improved data privacy and compliance
A more accurate view of user behavior with cross-device tracking for desktop, mobile, and tablet
New event-based tracking system to capture user interactions on your website or app
Built-in futureproofing
Do I need to switch over to GA4?
YES! Google is sunsetting the older Universal Analytics on July 1, 2023. If you want to continue using Google Analytics, you must upgrade. The older version (UA) will stop collecting data and working as of the switchover date.
You can use the new GA4 property alongside your Universal Analytics property until July, so get started with GA4 NOW and futureproof your analytics game!
How long will GA4 take to set up?
Getting set up initially is fast! It only takes about 10 minutes to install GA4. To get analytics just right for your business, some configuration by your tech team is then required, including:
Customized reports
Events
Data streams
If you need further assistance, reach out to your Customer Success Representative for details on our additional support packages.