Tags are segments of code on a website that collect data and allow that data to be tracked, often on Google Analytics. Google Tag Manager is a tool that makes the creation and organization of these tags simple. The most significant advantage of Google Tag Manager is that it allows you to create and implement tracking tags on a website without actually having to modify the code on the site’s backend. In order to fully utilize Google Tag Manager (or GTM, for short), you should make sure that your website is also set up with Google Analytics so that data from the tags can be tracked.
Creating a New Tag on Google Tag Manager
Once you’ve made a Google Tag Manager account and connected it to your website, you’re just a few simple steps away from creating tags that will help you effectively track analytics data.
Create a New Tag
Once you’re logged into Google Tag Manager, click the “Workspace” tab on the upper left side of the screen. Next, locate the area that says “New Tag” in the upper left quadrant of your window, then click “Add a new tag” right below it. Once you’ve clicked, a new screen will appear and allow you to name your new tag. Name it something that will allow you to remember what function the tag is being used for!
Configure the Tag
The next step in the process is to configure your new tag. To do this, click anywhere in the “Tag Configuration” box that appeared when you clicked “Add a new tag” during the first step. You’ll then be prompted to choose a tag type. The tag type you choose will depend on the function that you want this tag to perform. For this example, we’ll click “Google Analytics: Universal Analytics”. You’ll then need to decide which “Track Type” you want to use from the drop-down menu options. For this example, we’ll select the straightforward “Page View” option.
Choose Your Trigger
Next, you’ll need to choose what action you want to trigger this tag. Triggers can range from viewing any of your website’s pages to clicking on your business’s phone number – and everything in between. Triggers can essentially be set up for any action that users can do on your website. Once you’ve decided on what you want this tag to track, you can select the trigger that corresponds to it.
Activate Your New Tag
With your tag now fully configured, you’re almost ready to put it into action. Click “Save” on the top right of your screen, then “Submit”, which will be in the same area. Finally, select one of the publishing options, and your tag should be good to go! To ensure your new tag is working correctly, make sure it’s appearing in the “Version Summary” section of GTM. You can then use the tag assistant feature by clicking “Preview” in the top right corner of your screen to ensure your new tag is working properly.
Contact Boston Web Marketing!
If you have any questions about Google Tag Manager or any other Google tools, don’t hesitate to contact Boston Web Marketing! Our SEO specialists optimize websites for businesses in almost every industry! Give us a call at (857) 526-0096 or fill out the contact form on our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.