Why should I use Google Analytics?
1. It’s free
Yes, this is not a typo. It is free. Google does not charge you for using the product because it wants to sell advertising space and ensure that the right advertisements go to the right audience.
Every time someone visits any website, Google builds a profile of who they are based on what they are searching for, along with basic profiling information, such as their age and where they live. This is all done via tracking mechanisms.
It might sound a bit scary in a George Orwell kind of way, but it does have its benefits – and not just for your website’s insights. Have you ever spent time online searching for new tools or for your next fishing trip, only to start seeing ads relating to your searches popping up in your social media feed or browser? Well, that’s Google at work for its advertisers.
2. It’s relatively simple to install and use
All you need to get started is a Google Analytics account. Do you have a Gmail account? YouTube? Google Calendar? Well, with one of these you have the starting block to begin your new and improved analytics journey.
Then you simply search for Google Analytics (or in other words you type ‘Google Analytics’ into the search engine) which will lead you to Google’s Marketing Platform. Follow the Sign Up step and fill out information about your website.
Plus, if you feel you need more help there are plenty of online resources to go to if you get stuck or need a step-by-step guide.
3. It shows you who your customers are
The very same profiles Google develops to help its advertisers direct their messages is the very same information you have access to with Google Analytics. You can have an overview of who they are, or you can deep dive into their location, what devices they are using to visit your site, how they found you and what they are interested in based on their search history.
4. It shows you how your customers engage with your website
Not only do you have access to who your online viewers (and potential customers) are, but also what they do when they are online. Reports can show you what pages they view or how long they stay – which might provide you with insights into what is working and perhaps more importantly, what isn’t.
For more information on HIA’s free small business Digital Champions program visit www.hia.com.au/digital-champions