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GA4

GA4 Introduces Custom Event Data Import


Anoop T Unnikrishnan - June 18, 2024 - 0 comments

Google Analytics 4 (GA4) has revolutionized the way we can handle and analyze data by introducing the Custom Event Data Import feature. This powerful tool allows users to integrate external data with their GA4 analytics, providing a more comprehensive view of their digital performance. In this blog, we will delve into the specifics of this feature, including its setup, functionality, and best practices for leveraging custom event data import to enhance your analytics capabilities.

What is GA4 Custom Event Data Import?

Custom Event Data Import in GA4 enables you to import data collected outside GA4 using standard fields and event-scoped custom dimensions as join keys. This feature allows you to create custom reports that combine your imported data with existing GA4 data, offering a more complete picture of your analytics landscape.

Key Features of Custom Event Data Import

  1. Event-Scoped Custom Dimensions: The import process supports only event-scoped custom dimensions, ensuring precise integration with your GA4 data.
  2. Flexible Data Integration: You can import up to two key fields and ten import fields, allowing for extensive customization.
  3. Custom Reports: The imported data can be used to create custom reports, enhancing your ability to analyze and act on specific metrics.

How to Set Up Custom Event Data Import

Step 1: Prepare Your Data

  1. Create a CSV File: Ensure your data is in a CSV file. Avoid duplicate keys in the file.
  2. Organize Your Data: Include the necessary fields and values in the CSV file.

Step 2: Set Up Event-Scoped Custom Dimensions

  1. Log In to GA4: Open your Google Analytics account and select the property you want to work with.
  2. Go to Admin Settings: Click the gear icon at the bottom left of the screen.
  3. Custom Definitions: Under the Property column, click on “Custom Definitions” and then “Custom Dimensions.”
  4. Create Custom Dimensions: Click “+ New Custom Dimension,” fill in the details, and ensure the scope is set to “Event.” Save the dimension.

Step 3: Create a Data Source

  1. Navigate to Data Import: In the Admin panel, under the Property column, then select Data collection & modification, click on “Data Import.”
  2. Create Data Source: Click “+ Create Data Source.”
  3. Name Your Data Source: Enter a name and description for your data source.
  4. Select Data Type: Choose “Custom event data” as the data type.

Step 4: Upload Your Data

  1. Choose Upload Method: Select whether you want to upload your data via a CSV file or an SFTP server.
    • CSV File:
      • Click “Manual CSV upload.”
      • Select the CSV file from your computer and click “Open.”
    • SFTP Server:
      • Enter your SFTP server user name and URL.
      • Choose the upload frequency (Daily, Weekly, Monthly) and start time.
      • Verify the public key for your SFTP server.
    • Salesforce:
      • Currently not available.
  2. Map Your Fields:
    • Key Fields Table:
      • Click “Add fields” to select the fields in GA4 that will act as schema keys.
      • Select the appropriate Analytics field and its corresponding event parameter.
    • Import Fields Table:
      • Click “Add fields” to select the fields you want to include in your data via the join key.
      • Select from standard fields, custom dimensions, or type-in event parameters.
  3. Complete the Upload: Click “Next” to proceed to the mapping stage. Select the Analytics fields and imported fields you want to map to one another. Edit field names if necessary, then click “Import.”

Step 5: Verify Data Import

  1. Wait for Processing: Data may take up to 24 hours to appear in GA4 reports.
  2. Check Data Availability: Ensure the imported data is showing up correctly in your reports.

Step 6: Manage Your Data Source

  1. View Data Source Details: In the Admin panel, under “Data Import,” view the details of your data source, including the name, data type, public key, and upload history.
  2. Upload New Data:
    • Click “Import now” in the row for an existing data source.
    • Select the CSV file and click “Open.”
  3. Delete Data Source:
    • Click “More” > “Delete data source” next to the data source.
    • Read the deletion notice and click “Delete data source.”

By following these steps, you can effectively import and manage your data in Google Analytics 4, enhancing your analytics capabilities with external data.

Practical Tips for Successful Data Import

  • Avoid Duplicate Keys: Ensure that your data files do not include duplicate keys to prevent inconsistent reporting.
  • Follow Naming Conventions: Adhere to event naming conventions to ensure smooth data integration.
  • Monitor Data Source Integrity: Deleting custom dimensions used as key fields will cause the import to fail, so maintain the integrity of your data sources.

Limitations and Considerations

  • Single Data Source: You can only have one data source for custom event data import at a time.
  • Event Parameters: Typed-in event parameters must be linked to custom dimensions to appear in reports.
  • No New Events: This feature does not support the creation of new events, only the enhancement of existing data.

Analyzing and Acting on Imported Data

Once your data is imported, you can create custom reports to analyze the new insights alongside your standard GA4 data. Use segments and other analytics tools to drill down into the data, identifying trends and making informed decisions based on comprehensive analytics.

Google Analytics 4’s Custom Event Data Import feature is a game-changer for businesses looking to enhance their data analysis capabilities. By carefully setting up your data sources, adhering to best practices, and leveraging the flexibility of custom event data import, you can gain deeper insights into your digital performance and make more informed decisions. Embrace this powerful tool to take your GA4 analytics to the next level.

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