How to Install the New Google Analytics (GA 4) Code on Your Website?
Google Analytics is a powerful tool that can help you track and analyze your website's traffic and user behaviour. With the release of GA 4, there are new features and improvements that you can take advantage of. In this guide, we'll show you how to install the new GA 4 code on your website step-by-step.
Understand the differences between GA 4 and Universal Analytics
Before you install the new GA 4 code on your website, it's essential to understand the differences between GA 4 and Universal Analytics. GA 4 is designed to provide more advanced insights into user behaviour and engagement across multiple platforms, including mobile apps and the web. It also uses a new event-based data model, allowing more flexible tracking and reporting. However, it's important to note that GA 4 is not a direct upgrade from Universal Analytics, and you may need to adjust your tracking setup and reporting processes.
Create a new GA 4 property in your Google Analytics account
The first step to installing the new GA 4 code on your website is to create a new property in your Google Analytics account. This can be done by navigating to the Admin section of your account and selecting "Create Property" under the Property column. From there, you can select "Web" as the platform and enter your website's URL. Once you've completed the setup process, you'll be provided with a new tracking ID that you can use to install the GA 4 code on your website.
Install the GA 4 tracking code on your website
Once you have created a new property in your Google Analytics account, it's time to install the GA 4 tracking code on your website. This can be done by adding the tracking code to the header section of your website's HTML code. If you're using a content management system (CMS) like WordPress, you can use a plugin to add the tracking code to your website easily. Once the tracking code is installed, you can start tracking user behaviour and taking advantage of the latest GA 4 features.
Set up event tracking and custom dimensions in GA 4
One of the critical benefits of GA 4 is the ability to set up event tracking and custom dimensions. Event tracking allows you to track user actions on your website, such as clicking a button or filling out a form. Custom dimensions allow you to create data points to follow, such as user demographics or product categories. To set up event tracking and custom dimensions in GA 4, you must use the new event-driven data model and create custom events and parameters. This may require some technical expertise, but the benefits of more granular data tracking are well worth the effort.
Monitor your website's performance with GA 4 reports and insights
Once you have installed the new GA 4 code on your website and set up event tracking and custom dimensions, you can start monitoring your website's performance with GA 4 reports and insights. GA 4 offers a range of new reports and features, including a user-centric approach to tracking, cross-device tracking, and machine learning-powered insights. With GA 4, you can better understand your website's audience, behaviour, and performance and use this data to optimize your website and marketing strategies.
