Having GA4 Problems? Here’s What You Can Do!

GA4 Problems And What You Can Do About It

GA4 is on a roll with almost all the websites. And it is tough to believe that almost every website is facing some tracking issues even if everything is just set up perfectly. And why’s that so? That is what we will be discussing in this article.

Brief Overview Of The Shift From Universal Analytics (UA) To Google Analytics 4 (GA4)

The transition from Universal Analytics (UA) to Google Analytics 4 (GA4) marks a significant evolution in the world of digital analytics. UA, the predecessor to GA4, was built on a session-based data model that primarily relied on sessions and pageviews for tracking user interactions on websites and applications. While UA served its purpose well, technological advancements and the increasing emphasis on user privacy prompted Google to introduce GA4 as the future of analytics.

After the shift happened in July 2023, what changed then?

Here Are Some Common GA4 Problems With Potential Solutions

Problem 1: Metric Changes and Adaptation

The shift from UA to GA4 brought big changes in metrics, making it challenging to interpret and compare data effectively. Many are just finding it difficult to cope with it.

Explaining the Concept of Bounce Rate in GA4 and Its New Definition

In GA4, the concept of bounce rate has transformed. Unlike UA, where the bounce rate was the percentage of single-page sessions, GA4’s bounce rate is defined as the inverse of the “engaged session rate.” An engaged session lasts 10 seconds or longer, has one or more conversion events, or includes two or more page or screen views. This new definition aims to capture user engagement beyond just the initial page view.

Describing the Engaged Session Metric and Its Use in GA4

The engaged session metric in GA4 provides insights into sessions where users actively interact with content, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of user engagement. It considers factors beyond just pageviews, such as conversion events and time spent on the site. This metric aligns with the changing digital landscape where user interaction is becoming increasingly important.

Providing Guidance on Adapting to New Metrics and Understanding Their Value

To adapt to the new metrics in GA4, users are advised to shift their mindset and recognise the value of metrics like engaged sessions. While they may seem unfamiliar, these metrics provide a deeper understanding of user behaviour and engagement, allowing for more targeted optimisation strategies. It’s crucial to educate stakeholders about the new metrics’ significance and their role in measuring user interactions effectively

Here are some solutions that could help you find alternatives to such common problems.

Solutions

Educate Yourself
Familiarise yourself with GA4’s event-based data model and understand how key metrics are calculated.

Embrace New Metrics
Embrace new metrics like “engaged sessions” and “average engagement time per session” to gain insights into user interactions.

Re-Evaluate Reporting
Re-evaluate your reporting approach and identify which new metrics align with your business goals.

Adapt KPIs
Adapt your key performance indicators (KPIs) to suit GA4’s metrics, ensuring they reflect user engagement and conversion goals.

Problem 2: Missing Standard Reports and Data

Some standard reports available in UA are absent in GA4, affecting analysis capabilities.

Discussing the Reasons for the Absence of Certain Standard Reports in GA4

The absence of some standard reports in GA4 can be attributed to a shift in development philosophy. UA offered a comprehensive suite of pre-made reports for out-of-the-box analysis. In contrast, GA4 is designed as a flexible data collection tool, with analysis often taking place outside the platform using Data Studio or BigQuery. The reduced number of standard reports aims to provide flexibility in customisation.

Highlighting the Option to Customise and Build Reports in Data Studio or BigQuery

GA4 users can overcome the absence of standard reports by building custom reports using tools like Data Studio or BigQuery. These platforms offer the flexibility to create tailored visualisations and dashboards that replicate the missing standard reports. While it requires some additional effort, custom reports can provide more specific insights that align with business objectives.

Solutions

Customise Reports
Use Data Studio or BigQuery to create custom reports and visualisations that replicate missing standard reports.

Leverage Exploration Reports
Explore GA4’s “Explorations” feature to create custom reports tailored to your analysis needs.

Prioritise Key Insights
Identify the most critical insights you need from reports and focus on building those.

Problem 3: Conversion Tracking Complexity

Contrasting Conversion Tracking Methods Between UA and GA4

Setting up conversions, especially basic ones like form submissions, can be complex in GA4. Yes, there are testimonials all over the internet proving this. Criticism was above and beyond from many of the GA4 users. 

In UA, conversions were often set up using destination goals or event tracking, while GA4 introduces an event-based approach. This change can be complex for users accustomed to UA’s methods. Well, again we just have some solutions laid down for a better experience when you handle the GA4 property of your website.

Discussing GA4’s Built-In Event Creation Tool for Simpler Conversions

GA4 offers an event creation tool that simplifies the process of setting up basic custom events without relying solely on GTM. This tool can be useful for creating conversions based on common actions and streamlining the setup process.

Suggesting Alternatives for Those Uncomfortable With GA4’s Conversion Setup Process

For users uncomfortable with GA4’s conversion setup, alternatives include:

Use Google Tag Manager
Learn how to use Google Tag Manager to set up conversions in GA4.

Explore Built-In Event Creation Tool
Utilise GA4’s built-in event creation tool for simpler conversions without relying solely on Google Tag Manager.

Consider Third-Party Resources
Seek tutorials or guides on conversion tracking in GA4 to gain a better understanding of the process.

Problem 4: Privacy and GDPR Compliance

Privacy concerns, particularly in light of GDPR, raise questions about GA4’s data collection and compliance.

Addressing the Potential Implications of GDPR on GA4

GDPR compliance is a significant concern in the digital landscape, with GA4 being no exception. Users must ensure their GA4 setup aligns with GDPR requirements to protect user privacy and avoid legal issues.

Analysing Google’s Claims About GA4’s Privacy Focus and Compliance

Google claims that GA4 prioritises privacy by offering comprehensive controls for data collection and usage. It’s essential to assess these claims based on how GA4 handles user data, including IP address anonymisation and consent management.

Highlighting the Importance of Staying Informed About Privacy Updates and Adjustments

Staying informed about GA4’s privacy updates, adjustments, and compliance measures is vital for ensuring your analytics practices align with evolving privacy standards. Regularly review Google’s documentation and announcements related to privacy enhancements.

Solution:

Stay Informed
Keep up-to-date with Google’s updates on privacy enhancements and compliance measures for GA4.

Evaluate Data Handling
Understand how GA4 handles user data and what measures are in place to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

Consider Consent Management
Explore GA4’s consent management features or consider third-party solutions for managing user consent and privacy preferences.

Problem 5: Learning Curve and Change Management

Adapting to GA4’s new features and methodologies can be overwhelming.

Solution:

Training and Resources
Invest time in learning resources, tutorials, and official documentation provided by Google for GA4.

Practice and Implementation
Create a test property to practice GA4 implementation and become comfortable with its features.

Collaboration
Collaborate with colleagues or experts who are experienced in GA4 to share insights and best practices.

Be Patient
Understand that the learning curve is part of the transition process; allow yourself time to adapt and learn.

Understanding The GA4 Problems – A Deeper Dive

Complexity and Differences in Functions Between GA4 and UA

The complexity arises from the fact that GA4 and UA have different methodologies for tracking user interactions. UA relied on sessions and pageviews as core metrics, whereas GA4 treats everything as an event, providing greater flexibility in tracking various actions. This difference has implications for tracking and reporting, as well as for the interpretation of metrics.

Additionally, GA4 introduces a host of new features, metrics, and concepts that may not align with users’ prior experiences with UA. This can lead to confusion and a steeper learning curve as users try to grasp the new framework.

Here is what an independent analytics strategist said

Considering Options For Moving Forward

Adapting and Learning – Embracing the Learning Curve and Adapting to GA4’s New Features

Acknowledge the Learning Curve
Recognise that transitioning from UA to GA4 involves a learning curve due to the significant changes in metrics and reporting. Embrace this challenge as an opportunity to expand your skill set.

Invest Time in Training
Dedicate time to learning GA4 through tutorials, webinars, and Google’s official documentation. Understand the rationale behind the changes and how they contribute to a more privacy-conscious and user-engagement-focused analytics approach.

Experiment and Explore
Take advantage of GA4’s capabilities to explore new ways of understanding user behaviour and engagement. Experiment with custom events and metrics to uncover insights that were not easily accessible in UA.

Customising and Integrating – Leveraging Customisation Options Within GA4 to Replicate Familiar Functionalities

Utilise Custom Reports
Leverage GA4’s customisation options to recreate familiar reports and metrics. Create custom reports in Data Studio or BigQuery that align with your organisation’s specific reporting needs.

Integrate with Other Tools
Explore integration opportunities with other marketing and analytics tools. Use Google Tag Manager to streamline event tracking and enhance data collection efficiency.

Collaborate and Share Knowledge
Engage with peers and colleagues who are also navigating the GA4 transition. Share insights, tips, and strategies for customising GA4 to meet your team’s goals.

Exploring Alternatives – Considering Third-Party Analytics Platforms Like Piwik PRO for a Familiar Experience

Evaluate Third-Party Platforms
Research and evaluate third-party analytics platforms that offer features similar to those you valued in UA. Platforms like Piwik PRO can provide a familiar experience while addressing GA4’s challenges.

Consider Features and Integration
Assess the features, integration capabilities, and privacy compliance of alternative platforms. Look for options that align with your organisation’s analytics requirements and data privacy concerns.

Transition Gradually
If you decide to explore alternative platforms, consider transitioning gradually to ensure a seamless migration of data and reporting processes.

Ensuring Privacy Compliance – Taking Steps to Ensure GDPR Compliance with GA4

Stay Informed About Privacy Regulations
Stay updated on the latest developments in privacy regulations, particularly GDPR. Regularly review Google’s updates and changes to GA4’s privacy features and controls.

Implement Consent Management
Utilise GA4’s built-in consent management tools to obtain user consent for data collection. Communicate your organisation’s privacy policies and provide users with the option to opt-out if desired.

Analyse Data Handling Processes
Review how GA4 handles user data, including IP address anonymisation and data retention policies. Ensure that your data handling practices align with GDPR requirements.

Conclusion

The transition from UA to GA4 presents several challenges, and the disappearance of familiar metrics and the introduction of new ones is a notable concern. Understanding the reasons behind these changes and actively adapting to the new metrics will be crucial for users to effectively leverage the capabilities of GA4 and gain meaningful insights from their data.

Addressing the problems with GA4 requires a combination of understanding, adaptation, and proactive measures. By embracing new metrics, customising reports, simplifying conversion tracking, and staying informed about privacy considerations, users can effectively navigate the challenges posed by the transition from UA to GA4.

Users facing challenges with GA4 have multiple options for moving forward. By adapting to the learning curve, customising GA4 to replicate familiar functionalities, exploring alternative platforms, and ensuring privacy compliance, organisations can navigate the transition successfully and continue to extract valuable insights from their analytics data.

If you find GA4 confusing, let reposition handle all your reporting for your website. Contact us today for a smooth experience with reporting.