Google AdWords and Analytics Integration 101

Google AdWords

We received note from the Google team asking us to verify our integration between Google AdWords and Google Analytics as they are about to upgrade the integration between the two on march 4th.

The required actions are simply to verify that the accounts are connected AND that the “apply cost data” checkbox is checked on the analytics profile settings panel.

I’ll take this opportunity to revisit the whole AdWords – Analytics integration process, which is a pretty basic feature most of us can benefit from. However, most of the new accounts I meet are just not set properly hence losing out on some pretty neat features and insights on their websites and campaigns. Continue reading “Google AdWords and Analytics Integration 101”

setVar Change Impacts Bounce Rate in Google Analytics

Google Analytics has announced a change to the custom variable _setVar, which will impact key metrics such as bounce rate and time on page. In this post I will try to shed some light on setVar and bounce rate, and show a few examples of where we can use them to gain insights if our visitors’ behavior. Continue reading “setVar Change Impacts Bounce Rate in Google Analytics”

Leveraging Webmaster tools for SEO Success

Google webmaster tools panel has been around for quite some time. The Live webmaster tools joined a bit later. I get a lot of questions from colleagues and clients whether these are really helpful, and lately I found myself spending more and more time within these places finding useful information and amending my SEO strategy accordingly. Continue reading “Leveraging Webmaster tools for SEO Success”

SMX London 2008 – Day 2 Summary

SMX London day 2 has started with a super interesting session on link building strategies. I was surprised to really hear NEW stuff and much more than the regular “submit to Yahoo!” and “get links from your business partners, clients and vendors” – The speakers seemed all very knowledgeable and experienced in what I find is the most important quality in link building: Think OUT of the box. Continue reading “SMX London 2008 – Day 2 Summary”