Why don’t GA4 reports match If-So’s built-in stats data?
Google Analytics 4 (GA4) and If-So’s built-in statistics may show different results due to several factors, primarily revolving around how GA4 tracks and processes data:
- Tracking Methodologies:
GA4 and If-So use different tracking mechanisms. GA4 may miss certain user interactions due to tracking consent, ad blockers, or browser privacy settings. If-So, on the other hand, directly tracks interactions based on its internal logic, which may offer a more comprehensive view of specific user actions on personalized content. - Sampling and Data Processing:
GA4 often uses data sampling, especially for large data sets. This means that not all visits or interactions are included in the reports, leading to potential discrepancies in the numbers compared to If-So’s unsampled, direct tracking. - Timing and Delays:
GA4 data is not always real-time and may take up to 24–48 hours to process. If-So’s stats, however, are generally updated immediately, leading to a more real-time reflection of user behavior. - Data Filtering and User Privacy:
GA4 applies several filters based on user privacy settings (such as opting out of tracking) or data-sharing preferences, resulting in fewer reported events. If-So might track users more directly because it operates within your site’s environment and does not rely on third-party scripts.
Additionally, If-So does not count views from admin users, while GA4 does—unless you’ve specifically configured GA4 not to.
Due to these differences in tracking and data handling, it’s expected that GA4 and If-So’s stats may not align perfectly. If you need more granular or immediate data on specific user interactions, If-So’s stats are likely to provide more accurate insights related to your dynamic content.
User Location Data
When it comes to detecting a user’s location, it’s important to note that If-So and GA4 rely on different databases. As a result, their methods may vary, and the location data they provide may not always be 100% accurate.
If-So allows you to log every call that triggers the geolocation service. The data in these logs can shed light on any discrepancies between the reports and help identify potential inaccuracies (click here and scroll to the title “Manual Blocking” to learn more)