Last Updated on May 9, 2023
Google Analytics 4 is the latest version of Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google that tracks and reports website traffic. Google Analytics 4 is a significant update from the previous version, with new features and capabilities that will change how users track and analyze their data. For businesses that rely on web analytics to make decisions, it’s important to understand what’s new in Google Analytics 4 so you can be prepared for the changes.
Update
Google recently announced that Universal Analytics will be going away. “Google Analytics 4 is our next-generation measurement solution, and it’s replacing Universal Analytics. On July 1, 2023, standard Universal Analytics properties will stop processing new hits. If you still rely on Universal Analytics, we recommend that you prepare to use Google Analytics 4 going forward.” – Google Support
What is going to happen to your current UA historical data?
- Until July 1, 2023, you can continue to use and collect new data in your Universal Analytics properties.
- After July 1, 2023, you’ll be able to access your previously processed data in your Universal Analytics property for at least six months. We know your data is important to you, and we strongly encourage you to export your historical reports during this time.
- In the coming months, we’ll provide a future date for when existing Universal Analytics properties will no longer be available. After this future date, you’ll no longer be able to see your Universal Analytics reports in the Analytics interface or access your Universal Analytics data via the API.
What is GA4?
Google Analytics 4 is a new, improved version of Google Analytics that was released in October 2020. This new version has many features that make it more user-friendly and accurate than the previous versions. If you are currently using Google Analytics, upgrading to this new version is important to get the most accurate data possible. Google Analytics 4 is compatible with all devices and will be much easier to navigate.
Advantages of Google Analytics 4
It includes several new features and improvements, such as support for BigQuery export, improved session management, and a new user interface. If you’re currently using Google Analytics, you may be wondering why should upgrade to the new version.
GA4 includes a number of new features and improvements, such as:
- A new, more user-friendly interface
- Improved user engagement analysis
- Enhanced customer journey tracking.
- Enhanced data visualizations and reports.
- Easier to use goal and event setup.
- More effective audiences for your advertising campaigns.
Overall, GA4 provides a more comprehensive view of your website traffic and activity, making it an essential tool for all businesses. If you’re not already using GA4, now is the time to make the switch. We have created a free Google Analytics 4 Checklist to help you during your migration from Universal Analytics installation.
How is GA4 different from Universal Analytics?
With GA4, data is collected differently than it is with Universal Analytics. The most noteworthy difference is its use of machine learning in order to glean insights from the data it collects. According to Google, the new version of the app is privacy-based by design, which means that it will adhere to user privacy firmly. You can also track users across devices and platforms, which wasn’t possible with Universal Analytics. GA4 also introduces a new set of reports designed to give you insights into your user’s journey. These reports are called Funnels and Conversions, and they allow you to see how users interact with your site or app over time. It s free to sign up and use and is a great way to get visibility into how your site or app is performing.
How to use GA4
Here are some tips on how to get started with using GA4:
- The first step is to create a GA4 property in your Google Analytics account.
- Next, you’ll need to generate a measurement ID for your website or app. This ID will be used to collect data in GA4.
- Once you have your measurement ID, you can then add the GA4 tracking code to your website or app.
- To start collecting data, you’ll need to create some events within GA4. Events can be things like button clicks, page views, or any other actions that users take on your website or app.
- You can then view this data in the reporting interface of GA4.
Conclusion
This new, improved GA4 is essentially a re-architecture of our platform that we currently have and love, and the numerous benefits and features it offers. While it’s still in its infancy and is constantly evolving, we initially advise individuals to incorporate GA4 into their workflow. We strongly urge you to make the switch to Google Analytics 4 as soon as possible. Doing so will prepare you to build a base of historical data and usage in the new experience, helping you to focus on continuity once Universal Analytics is no longer an option. If you or your business are currently using Universal Analytics (If you created your property before October 15th, 2020, it is highly likely that it is utilizing Universal Analytics) and you are looking to migrate to GA4 before the deadline and do not know how to start the process, the team at HAVOKConsulting is here to help. If you are ready to get started schedule your FREE consultation today!
