Google Analytics 4 - Getting Started

Overview

The tutorial aims to help beginners get started with Google Analytics 4 (GA4).
Continuous updates to GA4 mean the interface and features may change frequently.

Access GA4 via the Google Marketing Platform or directly at analytics.google.com.
If new to GA, create an account and follow the setup process.
Account Setup:
- Name the account (e.g., company name).
- Each client in an agency should have a separate account for better management.
Property Creation:
- A property is where you store data; can track multiple connected websites.
- Choose reporting time zone and currency during the setup.

After creating a property, you can set up data streams, which collect data from websites or apps.
Three types of data streams: Website, Android, and iOS.
Target setting: Use the unique Measurement ID to install GA4 on your website.

Admin Section: Click on the gear icon for settings related to account properties.
Setup Assistant: A checklist to help with essential setups (tracking, conversions, linking to Google Ads).
Data Streams: Shows events that have been tracked.
Custom Definitions: Create custom dimensions and metrics for specific tracking needs.
Data Collection Settings:
- Enable Google Signals for more in-depth data but be cautious of privacy implications (thresholding).
- Adjust data retention settings (default is 2 months, recommended is 14 months).

Standard Reports: Overview on acquisition, engagement, and monetization metrics.
Real-time Data: Check live data about user activities on your website.
Acquisition Reports: Understand where visitors come from.
Engagement Reports: Track user interactions (top events, conversions).
Demographics & Tech Reports: Analyze user demographics and technology used.

Provides advanced reporting and analysis methods:
- Free Form: Customizable report views.
- Funnel Exploration: Analyze where users drop off in the conversion process.
- Path Exploration: Understand user navigation through website.

Use GTM for tracking rather than modifying website code directly.
Measurement ID: Required for linking GTM with GA4.
Creating Tags in GTM:
- Set up triggers for different events on the website (e.g., menu link clicks).
- Send data to GA4 with parameters for better insights.

To view custom parameters in reports, register them as custom dimensions in GA4.
Create explorations to track specific events (e.g., menu clicks).

Focus on event tracking, standard reports, and effective data implementation to derive value from metrics.
Consider enrolling in a full course for in-depth learning.

Author: Julius, Analytics Mania
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