Google Analytics is arguably one of the most powerful web analytics applications available today. Google Analytics is a powerful application for tracking traffic patterns on your website and it’s an entirely free program. Google Analytics is known for being an easy-to-use product, however it can be a bit intimidating to first-time users.

As part of our standard product line, Checkerboard sets up every one of our client websites on Google Analytics. For this reason, I often hear the question, “How do I use Google Analytics?” To provide a thorough answer to this question, I’ve decided to write a series of posts describing the features of Google Analytics, beginning with the basic layout. Let’s get started!

Q: How do I use Google Analytics? – The Basic Layout

A: The Basic Layout

When you access the report for your site, you’ll first be brought to the Visitors Overview screen. At the top of the report, you’ll see a chart showing your traffic patterns for the past month. You can also use the drop down to change the date for this graph and the rest of your reports show (or you can choose to compare two date ranges).

Along the left-hand side of the screen you’ll see your main report navigation. You can view more detailed reports for your Visitors from here, or switch to see overviews and detailed reports for traffic sources, content and conversions. Along the top, you’ll see more navigation. There’s an additional link for conversions there, as well as a link to custom reports.

Next Up: Visitors/Audience

Want to learn more about how Checkerboard Strategic Web Development can utilize Google Analytics to monitor your website traffic? Call us at (612) 283-4846!