How do you set up GA4 for WordPress - Free and Paid Methods

Sep 24, 2023

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If you've been wondering about how to setup GA4 for WordPress on your business's online site, you're at the right spot. The comprehensive guide from Growth Manager Curt Noble will teach you how to accomplish it swiftly, painless and for no expense.

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This is not the typical GA4 blog or a guide. I'm not going to spend the time to explain the basics of what GA4 is and why it's a pain.

I'm just curious about how you setup GA4 and supply all the data you require to complete your task in the most efficient time.

There's been lots of articles written on how to migrate out of Universal Analytics (UA) to GA4. This is why, in this blog, I'll show the steps to perform the new installation of GA4 on your website business site.

In case you're beginning to learn about WordPress and you're looking to monitor your website's performance and visitors' metrics, bookmark this article.

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Every Website Has Different GA4 Monitoring Needs

Each site is unique and has unique data tracking needs. It's difficult to deal with each and every GA4 tracking scenario. So, I'm going to stay with the basic, to the extent that I'm able.

So, if would like to know how many tacos customers have consumed before signing to sign up for membership in the Taco Tuesday Premium Recipe Membership... you're at the wrong spot.

It's unlikely that we'll be discussing this data tracking system in this.

But, keep reading because you'll have to begin with us in the end. First, you need to establish the GA4 account through Google and then set up an data stream.

Doesn't sound like fun, does it?

A great membership plugin, especially when it Comes to GA4 reporting

Woman doing GA4 reporting

The methods described in this tutorial can be used on any WordPress website. Let's face it. Some WordPress themes and plugins that work better using GA4. This is especially true for membership websites.

The primary benefit of integration GA4 GA4 is its versatility in terms of hooks available and API access. GA4 is one of the easiest integration plugin for membership.

All the important Google Analytics plugins have integrated with . You'll see throughout this guide how integrations with these plugins help you get your work done.

So, I'll just be honest and admit that. If you're not using GA4 on your website Google Analytics, then you'll need an Google Analytics specialist to completely install GA4 for the WordPress Membership site.

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How do you set up Google Analytics GA4 on Your WordPress Membership Site

Follow these steps for how to set up GA4 on WordPress

This guide outlines four methods for how to set to set up GA4 on WordPressfor your own membership website or for your online business. The methods vary between easyto completely free and also include the easymethod with a minor fee.

I'm confident that one of these strategies will work for your situation. Each strategy has an exact step. And you'll need to start by completing the first one before you can move on to the next step.

Sign up for a Google Analytics Account

If you're still not connected to one of the Google products (like Gmail or Google Drive) or you want to set up a separate account to use Google Analytics You'll then need to establish your personal Google account.

If you're looking to make an account then you are able to create one by visiting the Google Analytics webpage.

Create a New GA4 Property

After registering to create the Google Analytics account and logging in, you'll be required to create your GA4 account..

Because a single Google Analytics account can be used to track and analyze different websites, you are able to set up multiple properties to separate the information.

Once you are logged in to Google Analytics, click on the option Admin located in the lower left. Click the button and create a new feature..

Create Property in Google Analytics.

In the Create Property screen, you'll have to enter the essential information regarding your site. In the Business Objectives options you can select a variety of objectives.

These settings decide which reports you'll be able to access within GA4. But don't fret. It is possible to change the style of your GA4 reports using the interface at a later time.

Add property details in Google Analytics.

If you're able to access your Data Collection options, choose Webfrom the choices. This is where you'll configure the GA4 Data stream.

The Data stream is the area where GA4 collects all the happenings on your website.

You must enter your website's URL. assign your data stream a title. I suggest including "GA4" within the name of your stream. This can help you determine it is that stream. GA4 data stream later in this tutorial.

Setting up GA4 Events to collect via WordPress

GA4 consists of default events. And you can choose which events matter to you.

I suggest you choose the Enhanced Measurement choice. In this way, GA4 is told GA4 to record a handful of other events of a standard kind, such as scroll depth, clicks outbound, web search, and many more.

If you click the gear icon on the left, you'll have the option to select and select which events you wish to keep track of. One option is to leave them all checked.

Now, you might find the biggest omission, that there's an event to buy the event! Weird, right?

We'll talk about that in the near future.

Set up data stream in Google Analytics.

Step One is Complete!

This wasn't too difficult Was it?

You now have an fully operational GA4 web properties as well as a data stream. It's sitting just waiting for the data to flow (kind like my son, who's sitting at the table and a bowl awaiting somebody to pour him the Cap'n Crunch).

Let's take a look at four different methods of getting cereal into the bowl. I'm sorry... I'm trying to include the GA4 events to the stream of data.

The GA4 is now available on anyone who has a WordPress Website

The GA4 data stream set up and is ready to receive the events on your website. The next step is integrate some code in WordPress to transmit information directly to your stream.

As I said earlier, there are many options for achieving this. You'll need to decide what you prefer depending on the circumstance.

There are some things to keep in mind when you determine the best way to integrate GA4 on your WordPress site:

  • Are you comfortable analyzing data within the GA4 reporting interface?
  • Do you sell products like downloads, subscriptions or courses via your site?
  • Are you familiar with Google Tag Manager?
  • Do you also have advertisements or social networks you'd like to keep an eye on?
  • Do you have an affiliate link you want to share?

There's likely to be more thinking about. This is just a great list to start with. For each of the four options which follow, I'll provide examples of when each technique might be appropriate.

We're moving on!

Method #1 Method #1: Include GA4 plugin to WordPress at no costwith Google Site Kit plugin

This option is completely free. But it may not be the best option for your WordPress website. This option is suitable for WordPress sites that aren't selling anything.

The reason for this is Google Site Kit has a significant limitation in relation to tracking ecommerce transactions which is that it is not equipped with the capability to track ecommerce transactions..

It can also only manage Google instruments and services.

Do you think you'll want to monitor affiliate links or traffic from social media sites like Facebook as well as Twitter (X) at some point in the near future? It's best to avoid this cost-free technique.

If you decide to grow your body, it will cause you too limited. This being said below are the steps to follow.

Install the Google Site Kit plugin

Install Google Site Kit plugin.

On the Add Plugins page, simply search for the word Site Kit in Google. After that, install and activate the plugin.

Add plugins in WordPress.

Once the plugin is activated it's time to begin the configuration process. The initial step is connecting to the same Google account you previously used to register GA4 as a GA4 property previously.

Connect your GA4 Data Stream to WordPress via Google Site Kit

I've mentioned previously that Site Kit can be used Site Kit to connect to other Google products and services. This is however, an option.

Let's now be a part of Google Analytics by selecting it in the menu options and begin the process of setting it up.

Google Site Kit installation screen.

Next you'll need to select your account, property and the data stream. Make sure to pick that GA4 data stream you've created.

There is also the option to permit Google Site Kit to create the GA4 data stream to you, if you don't already have one. The options are however limited. Thus, I'd suggest configuring the data stream separately.

Make sure you select that option. You can install Google Analytics 4 Coding on your site. This is how GA4 will record analytics events on the WordPress site.

Google Site Kit connect service.

It's that simple. Google Analytics 4 has been installed on your WordPress website.

Be aware of the minor momentary delay in the time that data is collected. So, you won't be able to see the data that you've requested in the GA4 Report for an extended period of time.

Verify that GA4's data flows

It is possible to check sure your data is flowing throughout the Real Time report in GA4.

Go back to your Google Analytics account, and choose Reportson in the navigation menu left. Click Real Time..

If you don't see any information here It's likely that nobody is using your website. That's okay. You can simply visit your site in a new tab in the browser.

In a short time in the near future, you'll see your user session show up in real-time reports.

Method #2 2. Add GA4 to WordPress website for membership with Google Tag Manager for free (kind of)

This next method for adding GA4 on to WordPress utilizes the no-cost Google Tag Manager (GTM) solution.

Although GTM is available for free however, it could require the assistance of an analyst for the finalization of setup. This method is suitable in those with previous experience with GTM.

GTM permits you to set the events you want to set. And with GA4, you'll need to create a variety of events in Tag Manager. Therefore, put on your seat belts.

For the purpose of implementing the feature of tracking e-commerce through GTM within the WordPress site for membership You'll likely need additional codes. You'll specifically need the script for pushing the transaction data into Google Analytics' data layer. Google Analytics data layer.

Understanding the Data Layer Data Layer

The layer of data is a crucial concept when working in conjunction with GTM and Google Analytics (GA4). It acts as a bridge between your website and GTM.

It also lets you provide custom-designed information to GA4, Google Ads, and other third-party services.

The main function of the data layer is to separate the information and the display layer (your content). Therefore, instead of coding data directly in tags or scripts to be used on your website, it is possible to move the data to the data layer.

Once it is there, GTM can read the data, and use it to populate tags, triggers, and variables.

A Data Layer Can make your life easier

  • FlexibilityIt is possible to change and erase information, or even add new ones without altering the code of a website. This is particularly helpful for marketers who might not have direct access to the code base of websites.
  • Consistency - By centralizing information within one central location, it ensures consistent data gathering across various devices and platforms.
  • Advanced Tracking Data Layer allows for greater-than-average tracking capabilities for example, such as the capture of data of dynamic websites or applications with a single page.
  • Security - By controlling what data goes into the data layer and how it's accessed, you can ensure that information you aren't knowingly passed to third-party applications.

Once you've grasped the concept of the data layer we can get GTM installed!

Install an Google Tag Manager Plugin

There are numerous plugins that allow you to integrate GTM to your WordPress site. Because there is a widespread GTM implementation that is used by most plugins, they all do similar things.

It turns out that the Site Kit Google plugin is also able to install the GTM container on your behalf!

Click METHOD 1 for more information on the procedure you can install Google Site Kit. Google Site Kit plugin. You can then select to install Google Tag Manager.

Configuring the GA4 Tag in Google Tag Manager

Once you've got your GTM installed and set up, you're ready to begin deploying your very first GTM tag!

Notice: Google has recently moved the older GA4 Configuration tag to the worldwide Google Tag. So, if you've seen several tutorials which referenced the GA4 Configuration tag inside GTM, it's not there anymore..

Once you sign in to GTM, when you log in to your GTM workspace Create tags in addition to the existing. Give the tag an appropriate title on the lower left.

I'd suggest that you utilize the term "Google Tag" to refer to GA4". This could help you keep track of the tag that is the one that is governing your GA4 implementation.

After that, you can go into your tag configuration tab for the option to create a new tag type. After that, you'll receive an offer to include Google Analytics. On the next screen, there are a number of Google Analytics options. It is imperative to select Google Tag here.

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It will later be possible to configure GA4 events. The first step is to be sure Google Analytics to start. Google Analytics code firing.

After you've added the correct Google Tag, you'll have to input the Google Analytics Measurement ID.

The tag ID defines how Google can determine where to track your website's data. Here's how to identify the GA4 Measurement ID.

The next step is to notify Google Tag Manager where you want this tag to be displayed on your WordPress website. The GTM container will be displayed on every page of your site. So, it is possible to place your GA4 tag to every page as well.

The Triggering panel will allow you to select the option To initiate All Pages.

Google tag for GA4 screenshot

The GA4 tag that you post on the WordPress Membership Website. WordPress Membership Website

All you have to complete is back up your configuration for tags and upload the adjustments to the containers you've created.

You'll then find the Submitbutton situated within the upper left hand corner in GTM's Workspace.

Now GA4 has begun collecting the event information that you have set on your website.

The necessary software is installed to transfer the default event information into your data layer.

And the events you configured before using the GA4 option for data streams are tracked.

But, there's an absence of tracking of e-commerce place. So, let's get that fixed...

What is the best way to track your Member's sales in GA4

Did you remember all the talk about the data layer? To track member sales revenue and other data from e-commerce, you need to push this data to this layer.

This requires additional code. Also, you'll need to use Google Documentation. Google Documentation.

There are two parts to this system.

The initial step is to send the details of the transaction into your database layer upon the sale has been successful. Here's an example of the code to use for the "purchase" occasion:

window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; window.dataLayer.push( 'event': 'purchase', 'currency': 'USD', // use your currency 'value': 100.00, // total transaction value 'transaction_id': 'T12345', // unique transaction ID 'items': [ // array of purchased item objects 'item_id': 'SKU12345', 'item_name': 'Product Name', 'price': 50.00, 'quantity': 2 // ... other purchased items ] ); 

In the second, you'll have to set up an event tag within GTM for collecting and transmitting the data from transactions that are included in GA4 reports. The tags that are configured within GTM will look something similar to:

  • Create a tag from scratch making the tag's name GA4 Event'.
  • To name the event it is necessary to type "purchase".
  • The event's parameters are mapped as the ones before:
  • currency A|The|} Data Layer Variable
  • value to A|A|} Data Layer Variable
  • Transactions_ID A|} Data Layer Variable
  • objects tothe|} Data Layer Variable
  • Create a trigger for this tag so that it will fire when you visit the confirmation page of an order or when an order has been fulfilled successfully.

Doesn't there have to be a simpler way?

Using GTM to add GA4 tracking into the WordPress website is quite a task.

The method I've described above will give you the basics of analysis tracking, as well as sales reports.

But, you'll have to establish each other piece of data which needs to be monitored. Consider the possibility of what could happen if Google "flips its algorithm" on you.

As an example an example, the change from GA3 (Universal Analytics) to GA4 caused quite a shake-up for owners of websites and marketers.

If you're the one in charge of all the tracking strategies using GTM You'll have to keep an eye on any modifications. Many companies have a full-time post.

Do you think there is an easier way? It is indeed. There are two more effective options for doing this by using premium plugins.

The Most Budget-Friendly Ways to configure GA4 on WordPress Websites for Membership as well as Online Business

Phew! It's time to move on to the hard portion. If you've gone through the two previous options in creating the GA4 for setting the GA4 on WordPress It's possible that you're thinking this is over your salary. It's not. These next two options could be referred to as "stupid-easy".

For more than 10 years been spent in web analytics systems.

I've been involved in implementations that range from the free Google Analytics Legacy versions, up to more complex options like Web Trends and Omniture SiteCatalyst (both prior to and subsequent to an acquisition by Adobe acquisition).

In fact I've worked in conjunction with Customer Data Platform solutions like Tealium to implement Analytics software. I worked using data layers long before they were cool.

Thus, you're assured that I'm right when I say, these two plugins are an efficient choice to utilize GA4 for WordPress.

Method #3: The "almost costless" option to include GA4 to WordPress using WPCode Pro

As a student I was a student, I used to have a discount card called"the "Starving Student Card." The card offered me great discounts for Big Juan Burritos when I was at Taco Time. There are other deals too. That's not really the point.

It's an excellent idea to label it as"Starting Student. "Starving Student" is a way to add GA4 to your website for members.

This is a great option for budgeting, even for college students with small budgets. This is how:

Join WPCode Pro and install it. WPCode Pro

WPCode homepage screenshot

There's a version for free also, dubbed WPCode Lite. But, because you're working with GA4 for a membership website and require some key features that are only available in pro.

In particular, you'll require specifically, you'll need convert pixels and sophisticated eCommerce locationfeatures.

Plus! You'll also be able make use of WPCode Pro to add your social media tracking pixels.

There are millions of WordPress sites that utilize WPCode. At 4.9 rating, WPCode is quite possibly the highest rated plugin available.

WPCode customer rating screenshot

As a first step, to sign up with WPCode Pro. (If you just need to set it up for a single website The Basic Plan provides all you need for GA4.)

You must follow the steps below to connect and then enable the plugin via WordPress. WordPress website. WPCode Pro is integrated with WordPress. WordPress platform, and it can detect and activate the plugin automatically. This is a major time-saver.

Installing WPCode Pro to Implement GA4 for Your WordPress Membership Site

There's no requirement to install any extra scripts or code. WPCode Pro will set up an e-commerce layer, and add data to the layer of data.

There is no need to alter everything inside Google Tag Manager. Actually, WPCode completely eliminates the necessity to set up Google Tag Manager on your WordPress site.

The only thing you need to provide WPCode Pro your GA4 measurement ID (in the field that is blurred out below). It will take care of the rest. You must select which conversion events you want to track. It is recommended to keep track of all open instances.

GA4 set up in WPCode

It's that simple. it. Then you can add GA4 on your website for the purpose of membership. Your membership sign-ups are being tracked, and the data is being delivered to the GA4 report.

After this article I'll explain where to find the information on the conversion of your members inside GA4 reports. Let me first offer an another, easy solution for you!

The most adaptable and cost-effective option to incorporate strong GA4 tracker capabilities on WordPress Membership websites is to use MonsterInsights

The only caveat with WPCode (above) comes to be related to being able to sends all of the information to the GA4 account. Therefore, in order to see the information you have, you will need to sign in to your GA4 account and discover how to use through the GA4 User Interface.

First reports are available. The brand new GA4 user interface is effectively... garbage According to the people who have used it.

That's that MonsterInsights is my preferred solution to complete and full GA4 install. With MonsterInsights you'll be able accomplish the following tasks, in a short time:

  • Full-scale GA4 tracking, including E-commerce and no FOMO over not being able to track or tag an idea you're thinking of in the near future.
  • View all your information inside your WordPress Administration This means you don't have to fumble around the terrible GA4 user interface to get critical insights in your database
  • Link tracking outbound - You'll know the number of people who are using your hyperlinks included in your blog posts
  • Affiliate link tracking Learn which affiliate links get the most notice
  • EU conformance with EU compliance You can rest in your bed without the worry of having to pay a large penalty from the EU should you be found to have violated lawful data privacy regulations.
  • Monitoring of active users Track how paying members make use of your site in a different approach to that of the rest of the world.
  • Monitoring of author • Report on the performance of every blogger's author
  • Zero-Code implementation Cost-free for setting up your tracking codes and event set-up

Here is a quick overview. There are many options that make MonsterInsights an easy and affordable decision.

This zero-code feature pays dividends in a matter of minutes. You don't need to be an engineer in analytics or an expert with MonsterInsights.

Register and download MonsterInsights Pro for less than the price of an Chipotle Burrito Every Month

And the setup wizard helps make the process of installation quick and simple.

MonsterInsights setup wizard in WordPress

The wizard is comprehensive as well as extremely easy to use. Therefore, I will not go through every process.

However, there's a comprehensive guide on the whole process of setting up, for the event that you'll need it. When you've finished the Addons section, be sure you install the MonsterInsights extensions for selling on eBay.

MonsterInsights recommended addons screen

There is nothing more it takes to setup.

The WordPress Membership website should have been up and running GA4 tracking. MonsterInsights is constructing your data layer as well as all the GA4 events that you chose to track in the initial setup process.

In the same way You do not need to log into your GA4 account in order to view the information. MonsterInsights shows your data right inside the admin section of WordPress.

Accessing your GA4 details inside the WordPress Administration

To get to your GA4 details within MonsterInsights there's brief summary information on the widget on your dashboard.

MonsterInsights WordPress admin data screen

You can view a complete collection of the data when you go through Insights. The Insights button in the navigation left.

The viewing of Your Data in Google Analytics

Out of all the options of which there are many out there, only MonsterInsights provides the analytics information directly within WordPress. In order to use the other options it is necessary to sign into the account of your Google Analytics account and navigate through your GA4 account.

The image is the result from the sandbox which I played around in within this post. So, there's not any data available to show. In case you'd prefer to dive into GA4 and explore it for some time, I suggest visiting GA4 Test Account. GA4 test account.

Final Reflections

Congrats! You've completed Google Google Analytics set up on your WordPress site for a membership with your business online.

You can now gain a greater understanding of the way your customers are engaged with your site and the extent to which your site is in converting users into members.

If you're looking to learn the details about Google Analytics We've written an article that explains methods to use this service to boost your site to attract members.

There's also a free course that can be located in Google Analytics. Google Analytics website for people who want to make the most of this service.

     Do you have any questions regarding using Google Analytics for your site's participation? If yes, please leave your answer in the box to the right.

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