Google releases Step-by-Step Video Guide for adding Google Tag

Google yesterday released an instructional video providing a step-by-step guide on how to add the Google Tag to websites using Google Tag Manager. This detailed walkthrough aims to simplify the process of implementing analytics tools for website owners, marketers, and developers.

Matt Landers, Developer Relations Lead at Google, outlines two primary methods for adding the Google Tag: through gtag.js or via Google Tag Manager. Landers emphasizes the importance of choosing only one method, cautioning against implementing both simultaneously.

According to the video, the Google Tag Manager approach is particularly beneficial in several scenarios:

1. When website code is difficult to update directly
2. For users without a strong development background
3. In organizations looking to separate website code management from analytics configuration
4. When setting up proxy servers to manage data transmission in compliance with local regulations

The guide breaks down the implementation process into several key steps:

1. Creating a Google Tag Manager Account:
   Users start by visiting tagmanager.google.com and signing into their Google account. The process involves creating an account, typically representing the business entity, and specifying the country of operation.
2. Setting Up a Container:
   Within the account, users create a "container" for each website. This container serves as a repository for various tags and configuration settings. Google Tag Manager supports different container types, including web, app, AMP sites, and server-side tagging.
3. Installing Container Snippets:
   After container creation, Google Tag Manager provides two code snippets. These snippets must be added to the website's HTML, replacing any existing gtag.js implementations. The guide emphasizes the correct placement of these snippets within the and sections of the site's code.
4. Configuring Tags:
   With the container in place, users can begin adding specific tags. The process involves creating a new tag within the Google Tag Manager interface, selecting "Google Tag" as the tag type, and entering the appropriate tag ID.
5. Verifying and Publishing:
   Before changes take effect, users must verify their setup using the Preview mode in Google Tag Manager. This step allows for testing tag functionality across various pages of the website. Once verified, changes are published, making them live on the site.

The video guide also addresses technical considerations:

1. Container ID Format:
   Each container is assigned a unique identifier following the format "GTM-XXXXXXX". This ID is crucial for connecting the website to the correct Tag Manager configuration.
2. Tag Types:
   While the guide focuses on implementing the Google Tag, it notes that Google Tag Manager supports a wide array of tag types beyond Google's own products.
3. Version Control:
   Google Tag Manager incorporates a versioning system. Each time changes are published, a new version is created, complete with a name and description.
4. Workspace Concept:
   The tool utilizes a "Workspace" paradigm, allowing users to make and test changes in isolation before pushing them live.

For those transitioning from gtag.js to Google Tag Manager, the video mentions additional resources to facilitate this process.

Key features of the implementation process highlighted in the video include

Support for web, app, AMP, and server-side tagging configurations

Requirement of two distinct code snippets inserted into a website's HTML

Container-based system for organizing tags across different web properties

Preview mode for testing tag implementations before publication

Built-in version control for easy tracking and management of changes

Capability to replace direct gtag.js implementations, centralizing analytics management

The release of this comprehensive video guide reflects Google's commitment to making web analytics more accessible to a broader audience. By providing detailed, step-by-step instructions, Google aims to empower website owners and marketers to effectively implement and manage their analytics tools, regardless of their technical background.

This instructional video serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their website's data collection capabilities. It demystifies the process of implementing the Google Tag, potentially leading to more widespread and effective use of web analytics across various online properties.

Key Facts

Google released the instructional video on August 23, 2024

The guide covers both gtag.js and Google Tag Manager implementation methods

The video provides a detailed walkthrough of the Google Tag Manager setup process

It addresses various technical aspects, including container IDs and version control

The guide aims to make analytics implementation accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise

This comprehensive approach to explaining Google Tag implementation underscores the importance of accurate data collection in the digital marketing landscape and Google's efforts to make these tools more user-friendly.