Gigatags
Nov 18, 2024
Here are some common mistakes people make when setting up Google Tag Manager and how to avoid them.
What are the most common mistakes people make when setting up Google Tag Manager for the first time?
1. Not Defining Clear Objectives
Mistake:
Many users jump into setting up GTM without having clear objectives in mind. This can lead to a cluttered and inefficient setup.
Solution:
Define Goals: Before you start, outline what you want to achieve with GTM. Are you looking to track page views, conversions, or user interactions?
Plan Your Tags: Create a list of all the tags you need and their purposes.
2. Ignoring the Importance of Naming Conventions
Mistake:
Using vague or inconsistent naming conventions for tags, triggers, and variables can make your GTM setup confusing and hard to manage.
Solution:
Use Descriptive Names: Always use clear and descriptive names. For example, instead of naming a tag “Tag 1,” name it “GA - Pageview - All Pages.”
Develop a Naming Convention: Establish a naming convention and stick to it. This could be something like [Platform] - [Action] - [Details].
3. Not Testing Tags Before Publishing
Mistake:
Failing to test your tags before publishing can lead to errors and unreliable data collection.
Solution:
Use Preview Mode: GTM’s Preview mode allows you to test your tags in a live environment without publishing them.
Check Data Layer: Ensure that your data layer is properly set up and the correct information is being pushed
4. Overlooking the Importance of the Data Layer
Mistake:
Not utilizing the data layer or misunderstanding its importance can limit the functionality and accuracy of your tags.
Solution:
Understand the Data Layer: The data layer is a crucial part of GTM that holds information you want to track. Make sure you understand how it works and how to implement it correctly.
Implement Properly: Work with your developer to ensure the data layer is set up correctly and all necessary information is being captured.
5. Misconfiguring Triggers
Mistake:
Incorrectly configuring triggers can cause tags to fire at the wrong times or not at all.
Solution:
Understand Trigger Types: Familiarize yourself with the different types of triggers available in GTM and their appropriate use cases.
Test Thoroughly: Always test your triggers in Preview mode to ensure they are firing as expected.
6. Forgetting to Exclude Internal Traffic
Mistake:
Failing to exclude internal traffic can skew your data and lead to inaccurate insights.
Solution:
Set Up Filters: Use IP filters to exclude internal traffic from being tracked. This can be done by creating a variable for your IP address and setting up a trigger to exclude it.
7. Not Keeping GTM Container Versions
Mistake:
Not versioning your GTM container can make it difficult to track changes and revert to previous versions if something goes wrong.
Solution:
Publish Versions Regularly: Each time you make significant changes, publish a new version of your container. This helps in maintaining a history of changes and makes debugging easier.
8. Failing to Use Built-In Variables
Mistake:
Ignoring the built-in variables provided by GTM and instead creating custom ones unnecessarily complicates your setup.
Solution:
Enable Built-In Variables: Utilize GTM’s built-in variables wherever possible. They are designed to handle common tracking scenarios and simplify your setup.
9. Not Collaborating with Team Members
Mistake:
Setting up GTM in isolation without involving other team members can lead to misalignment and incomplete implementations.
Solution:
Communicate with Team Members: Involve your marketing, analytics, and development teams in the setup process to ensure all tracking requirements are met.
Assign Roles and Permissions: Use GTM’s user management features to assign appropriate roles and permissions to team members.
10. Overloading the Container with Too Many Tags
Mistake:
Adding too many tags to a single GTM container can slow down your website and make tag management cumbersome.
Solution:
Prioritize Essential Tags: Only add tags that are essential for your tracking and marketing needs.
Monitor Performance: Regularly review your tags and remove any that are no longer needed.
Setting up Google Tag Manager correctly from the start is crucial for accurate data collection and efficient tag management. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother setup process and more reliable tracking. Remember to plan ahead, use clear naming conventions, test thoroughly, and involve your team to make the most of GTM’s powerful capabilities. Having trouble understanding what might be wrong with your tags? We can help!