A storm is brewing in the world of analytics: the migration from Universal Analytics (UA) to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). This transition has left many marketers worried and uncertain about what lies ahead. In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the hidden facts, debunk myths, and address the controversies surrounding GA4 migration. This guide will help you navigate the GA4 migration maze and ensure you’re prepared for the storm that’s approaching.

GA4 Deadline: A ticking time bomb?

Let’s clarify what a GA4 migration entails. GA4 migration refers to the process of transitioning from Universal Analytics (UA) to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). It involves setting up a GA4 property, creating a data stream, and installing it on your website using your preferred tag management system. The goal is to leverage the advanced tracking capabilities, improved data privacy, and enhanced features offered by GA4.

The urgency to migrate to GA4 stems from the impending deadline. The deadline for migrating to GA4 is July 1, 2023. After this date, Universal Analytics (UA) properties will stop processing new data from websites. That’s right, no new tracking recorded in UA. If businesses miss the deadline, they risk losing access to all their incoming analytics data. It’s like losing sight of your compass, making it impossible to monitor performance and make informed decisions.

What Happens if I Don’t Migrate to GA4?

You might be wondering, what’s the worst that could happen if you don’t migrate to GA4? Starting July 1, 2023, Universal Analytics (UA) will stop processing new data from websites. This means that if you continue using UA and don’t migrate to GA4, you will not have web data after that date. It’s like shutting down the faucet that feeds you critical insights about your audience, their behaviors, and your marketing performance.

Missing the GA4 migration deadline can have significant consequences for your marketing efforts. Firstly, you’ll lose access to the powerful features and insights offered by GA4. This means you’ll be relying on outdated analytics data and no new data, which will quickly result in potentially making ill-informed decisions that could harm your marketing campaigns. Failing to migrate to GA4 may lead to data loss and disruption in your analytics tracking. If you are running paid media, you will also lose the important link back to conversions and continuous paid improvements. GA4 introduces a new data model and reporting structure, and without migrating, your existing data will not seamlessly transfer over.

If you’re not sorted in time, it may also impact your ability to stay competitive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. As more and more marketers embrace GA4 and leverage its advanced features, those who stick with Universal Analytics may find themselves falling behind in terms of data-driven insights and optimization opportunities.

In the next section, we will dive into the GA4 vs. Universal Analytics debate to help you better understand the key differences between the two and make an informed decision.

Can You Migrate Your Data to GA4 Later?

No, it’s not possible to migrate old data from Universal Analytics (UA) to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). This means that businesses must start using GA4 as soon as possible to begin collecting data. Historical data from UA will not be imported to GA4, and businesses will only be able to track traffic data from the moment they create their GA4 property and forward.

To preserve historical data, businesses can export it before the deadline. Free GA4 accounts allow access to the past 14 months’ worth of data, while paid enterprise-level 360 accounts offer access to the past.

Get your smooth transition sorted so you can stay ahead of the game.

If it all feels overwhelming, find out more about how Digivizer can help you by;

• Safeguarding Your Valuable Data
• Deciphering Complex Data for Actionable Insights
• Setting you up to enjoy a Hassle-Free Migration Managed by Experts

If you need help? 

Digivizer has a special offer if you book before June 24th. You can read more here  or book your stress-free migration.