Google will stop processing data in Google Universal Analytics as of July 1, 2023. At that point, your only option will be to transition full-time to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). Here's why you shouldn't wait and transition now.
Google Universal Analytics (GUA) is the primary source of analytics data for your website, and we rely on importing that data into your Metrics for News dashboards.
As you may have heard, Google has announced that it will stop processing data in GUA as of July 1, 2023. At that point, your only option will be to transition full-time to Google Analytics 4 (GA4).
While that gives you time, there are reasons to make the transition at least six months before the deadline.
What is the potential problem?
Unfortunately, data for GA4 cannot be migrated from GUA. This makes it important that you set up a new GA4 property to begin collecting data as soon as possible, so that when you decide to make the full switch, you have some historical data available. All you have to do to ensure you are ready for this transition is to set up a GA4 property.
Can GUA and GA4 run simultaneously?
Yes. In fact, Google recommends it.
Will I lose data in Metrics for News?
In short, no. Metrics for News keeps a separate copy of your analytics data. When you do fully switch to GA4, we will preserve your older data while drawing in the new data from GA4. To avoid any gaps or inconsistencies at the time of that switch, we recommend that you have GA4 collect data in parallel to the existing version for at least six months before making the full switch to GA4.
How can I do this quickly without disrupting my data?
You can set up the new property in GA4 yourself by following these instructions. OR, if you would like assistance you can hire our in-house Google Analytics expert Brad Gerick. You can reach him, commitment-free, at brad.gerick@pressinstitute.org, or schedule an exploratory 15-minute call at no cost to discuss what next steps would look like.