Just published this week, and now in its second edition, this new book on Google Analytics, by ex-Googler, Brian Clifton is a "must-buy" for any company serious about using Google Analytics to help their company succeed online.
The book's title is Advanced Web Metrics with Google Analytics, but the title of this review is intended to highlight why I think it's essential reading. I think much of its value is in customising or tailoring Google Analytics to a business. I say this since, when working with clients or training, I find that the majority of companies don't have Google Analytics with a tailored setup which is right to improve results for their business. This prompted me to write my post giving a checklist of 6 customisation options from simple to difficult.This book explains how to implement all of these setup steps in an easy to follow format.
Although I am a big fan of Brian's work - hence this review, the Advanced Web Metrics series of books is now out of date (valid for "classic" analytics only - not Universal or GTM).
His latest book "Successful Analytics - Gain Business Insights by Managing Google Analytics" is something quite different form the bible that Advanced Web Metrics was. Check out my review here.
Although I have focused on the benefit of the book in customisation, that's only the emphasis of Part 3. I would summarise the 4 parts of the book as:
Although reviewing part 3 for how you should setup your Google Analytics is arguably the most important, my favourite part of the book is actually Part 4 which is all about "Actionable Analytics" using the data to do things differently on your site or within campaigns. The content in this section is relevant to both digital marketing managers and analysts, with topics including:
The sections on using the Google Website Optimiser and Google Analytics API are relatively short, but I think that's right for this type of book.
By Dave Chaffey
Digital strategist Dr Dave Chaffey is co-founder and Content Director of online marketing training platform and publisher Smart Insights. 'Dr Dave' is known for his strategic, but practical, data-driven advice. He has trained and consulted with many business of all sizes in most sectors. These include large international B2B and B2C brands including 3M, BP, Barclaycard, Dell, Confused.com, HSBC, Mercedes-Benz, Microsoft, M&G Investment, Rentokil Initial, O2, Royal Canin (Mars Group) plus many smaller businesses. Dave is editor of the templates, guides and courses in our digital marketing resource library used by our Business members to plan, manage and optimize their marketing. Free members can access our free sample templates here. Dave is also keynote speaker, trainer and consultant who is author of 5 bestselling books on digital marketing including Digital Marketing Excellence and Digital Marketing: Strategy, Implementation and Practice. In 2004 he was recognised by the Chartered Institute of Marketing as one of 50 marketing ‘gurus’ worldwide who have helped shape the future of marketing. My personal site, DaveChaffey.com, lists my latest Digital marketing and E-commerce books and support materials including a digital marketing glossary. Please connect on LinkedIn to receive updates or ask me a question.
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