In 2020, Google launched a new version of Google Analytics: Google Analytics 4 (GA4). This version replaced the previous Universal Analytics (UA) version. Standard Universal Analytics properties stopped processing new hits. If you use Google Analytics, it is important that you collect data for GA4, as there is no tool to transfer historical data from Universal Analytics to GA4.
I am already a user of Channable Analytics
If you are currently using Channable Analytics with UA, it is necessary to also have a GA4 property that collects data in parallel with UA.
To migrate to GA4, follow these steps:
- Go to “Setup > Set up Analytics” and switch the Analytics version from “Google Universal” to “Google Analytics 4”. It’s important not to delete the Google Universal View ID. This value is required to seamlessly switch back to the UA setup within the same Analytics setup. Switching between GA4 and UA within the same Analytics setup allows all dependent logic within Channable to remain valid, such as rules or Insights setup.
- Fill in the GA4 Property ID and save. The GA4 Property ID can be found in the “Admin” section of your GA4 Account.
Important: Make sure that you use GA4 with the same data as your UA collects.
- Save and click on “Run now”. It might take several minutes to a few hours to download all the data. After a maximum of one day, you will be able to start seeing data.
When you need to switch back to UA, go back to “Setup > Set up Analytics" and switch the version from “Google Analytics 4” to “Google Universal”. Your previous View ID should appear. You can save and run the Analytics job. After a maximum of 1 day, you will see the data you had before the migration.
I am a new user of Channable Analytics
In the case where you want to start using Channable Analytics, you can create a GA4 connection using the GA4 Property ID. There is no need for any UA information here. Then, allow the connection to Google Analytics and configure the dashboard. For more information on how to set up GA4, please follow this guide.
FAQ
1. My data in UA and GA4 setups differ. How can I fix this?
The data in the UA and GA4 setups for the past 7 days can differ. As a matter of fact, GA4 can update attributed conversions for up to 7 days after the conversion is recorded. For more information, read this article on how GA4 works.
2. No statistics found
error after switching to GA4. What can be the reason?
Please check the following:
- Check if the Property ID you use matches the Channable project and the website that you use this project for.
- If the GA4 Property was just created or if the Channable Analytics dashboard was just created, there is not enough data. Please wait for at least 5 days in order for Channable to start retrieving data.