Corestad – Cookieless Tracking – Knowledge Base
CORESTAD
Cookieless Tracking – Knowledge Base
Cookieless Website Tracking
Cookies have become a problematic topic in the past years due to their classification as Personally Identifiable Datapoint in the European GDPR regulation.
The issues were fuelled even further after Apple has introduced their Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) features which resulted in the deletion of every third-party and as of the last version even first-party cookies under many circumstances.
We have developed this App to counter the measurement issues which arose due to these changes by synchronising User Data between Shopify and Google Analytics anonymously. This results in better data quality and decrased data loss, eliminating the tracking differences between Shopify and Google Analytics along the way.
Our App uses different measurement techniques to improve overall tracking data quality while integrating fully into Shopify’s Privacy and Compliance environment and maintaining users privacy by linking users through the harmonisation of the systems instead of using Google’s own identification, resulting in increased privacy for end users while increasing data quality.
FAQ
General Information
What is Corestad – Cookieless Tracking and what is used for?
Corestad is a Marketing and Data Technology Company specialised on complex technology solutions. We have built this App as we have seen our clients often struggling measuring their data efficiently within Shopify, especially as the native Google Application results in around 50% of lost data.
At this stage the app allows shop owners to easily integrate Google Analytics 4 in their Shopify store, without needing to code a single line. The app tracks every standard e-commerce event within Shopify without placing any third party cookie.
Why should I use Corestad – Cookieless Tracking and who can use it?
“Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” offers numerous benefits for Shopify store owners who want to track all events in Google Analytics. By using our app, you can easily connect your Shopify store with Google Analytics 4, ensuring seamless data integration. Whether you are a small business or a large enterprise, “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” can be utilized by anyone looking to enhance their data tracking capabilities and gain valuable insights.
In comparison to other, free apps, we do not use our app as a medium for collecting user data from your customers and focus on delivering a good software with easy usage. Consider this, if something is free you’re the product, or specifically, your customers.
Do you offer a Trial Period?
Yes! We offer a 7 day trial period so you can test out the app.
Important Notice: We highly recommend using a newly created Web Container during the trial period to make sure no data is lost during the test.
How much does the app cost?
Our pricing for the App is fixed at 9,99 USD every 30 days.
Why do I need “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” instead of using Shopify’s native reports?
While Shopify’s native reports provide basic data insights Google Analytics provides enhance analytics capabilities and the option to connect your data to other Google products for conversion measurement. The native Google Analytics App in Shopify is not measuring Data properly which is the reason why we have built our app. Along with this, we do not allow Google to add their Cookies to your customers while maintaining accurate data even for Safari Browsers by using the Shopify Customer ID as GA4 User ID. This results in more secure and accurate data through addressing issues such as missing check-out events & e-commerce data/reports, automatic cookie deletion, data inaccuracies between Google Analytics and Shopify, and many more.
What is the difference to other comparable tracking Apps?
The App integrates with Shopifys own App Pixels Tracking Solution, the preferred way to implement any thid party tracking in your store. We use Authenticated Requests towards Google Analytics identifying the consenting users by their Shopify User ID instead of Google’s identification. This allows to track consenting users through the Lifetime of the Shopify User ID Cookies. This improves Attribution and Conversion Measurement.
We do not collect any user data from your customers unlike other apps and forward customer data as anonymously as possible. We report campaign information and the Shopify User ID towards Google Analtyics 4.
Compared to the native GA4 Plugin offered, we track the events properly and thus allowing better measurement experience while removing the necessity to use Google Cookies.
Shopify already links with Google Analytics & Facebook Pixel. Why would I use “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking”?
While on one side it’s true that Shopify integrates with Google Analytics & Facebook Pixel, the latter will discontinue the integration in August 2023 and the former has around 50% data loss compared Shopify based on our experience. Our App integrates into Shopify’s App Pixel framework offering a stable and more a reliable tracking for Google Analytics 4, with no additional technical knowledge needed. We address common tracking issues, optimize conversion tracking through the standard GA4 Conversion events and enhance data accuracy.
Can “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” be used by non-Shopify Plus stores?
Absolutely! Our app is designed to be compatible with both Shopify Plus and non-Shopify Plus stores.
What data is beeing collected by Corestad?
We do not store any data from end-users, only from Merchants. The Merchant data we store is limited to technically necessary information to provide the app functionality. The Store datapoints are:
– Authentication Data (for processing requests towards Google Analytics),
– Store ID and Store Name (to associate the data to the correct Shopify Merchant), and
– Payment Information (Name, Adress, Company Information, Payment data (processed by Shopify)).
Once the app is uninstalled we delete any information we are not obligated to keep by the local financial authorities. The storage of payment data is limited by the local authorities to seven years.
Do you offer Meta CAPI, TikTok CAPI and Google Ads Support?
Currently, we only support GA4, but we plan to launch upper mentioned connectors by Fall. But using GA4 you can export data to both Meta and Google Ads.
Do you offer technical support?
In case you encounter technical errors please contact us under support@corestad.com. At this point, we do not offer technical support free of charge, in case you require assistance in setting up the up reach out to our support with your inquiry to get an offer.
Important Notice: We highly recommend using a newly created Web Container during the trial period to make sure no data is lost during the test.
I don’t have any technical knowledge. Can I still set up the App myself?
Absolutely! You don’t need to have technical knowledge to set up the app. We have designed it with simplicity in mind, ensuring that anyone can install it without technical expertise.
Please refer to our knowledge base articles and FAQ for additional information.
Can I rely on the app to provide 100% accurate data?
“Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” aims to provide the most accurate data tracking experience possible. We take rigorous measures to optimize data accuracy within our control. Our app ensures that all events in your Shopify Store triggers through their built-in app pixel integration, allowing you to have a comprehensive view of your customers’ interactions and behaviours. However, it’s important to recognize that there are external factors that can affect data accuracy (consent, ad blocking, browser settings etc.). No app can guarantee 100% accuracy, but we strive to achieve this.
Can “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” track custom events – different from the standard e-commerce setup?
At this moment we do not support custom events. This feature is planned to be introduced in the upcoming versions of the app.
App Setup
How to configure the app?
The installation is simple. You only need to authenticate with Google Analytics, choose the correct Property, Web container and Measurement ID. Once this has been set up, you are ready to go, nothing else to do.
Please make sure you allow in the Google Authentication screen “Edit Google Analytics management entities“. This is required so wen can create an authentication Token for the App to function as intended. If you forget setting this option, don’t worry, you will be prompted to reauthenticate in the App. Please note, that this option is mandatory to use the features of our App.
Please refer to our “Getting Started” article in the help section to see this process step by step.
We recommend using our trial period to test the app in a new Web Container, to make sure all information you require are measured properly. We will not alter or delete any container within Google Analytics, we will only generate an API key so we can securely send data to your Google Analytics Property.
I am using another app at the moment. How can I switch to “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking”?
Switching to “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” from another app is a straightforward process. To avoid double-counting in GA4, please remove
– Any custom codes in Shopify,
– Apps from other companies used for GA4-Tracking, and
– Google Analytics 4 Tags from the Checkout Pixels.
This will ensure a seamless integration with your Shopify store and Google Analytics.
My store/ad campaigns are not live yet. Should I still set up the app now?
Yes, it’s recommended to set up “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” even if your store or ad campaigns are not yet live. By setting up the tracking early on, you can ensure that all the necessary data is being collected from the beginning. This will provide you with accurate insights and allow you to analyze the effectiveness of your marketing efforts right from the start.
What will happen to my historical data?
We will seamlessly connect to you current GA4 setup if you so choose, not resulting in any . We recommend for the time of testing the app using a newly created web container for GA4.
Your historical data will remain intact and data collection will be continued after switching to our app.
You can continue to access and leverage your historical data while benefiting from the enhanced tracking capabilities offered by our app moving forward.
What should I do when I change my domain?
If you change your domain, it’s important to update your tracking setup to ensure seamless tracking continuity. Simply reauthenticate the connection to make sure the tracking is set up properly. In case you have set up URL restrictions within GA4, please also adapt these accordingly.
GDPR
What access do you need? What data is being collected by Corestad?
To function optimally, “Corestad-Cookieless Tracking” authenticates just to your specific Google Analytics account and Shopify store. This access enables us to integrate the tracking capabilities seamlessly. Rest assured that we adhere to strict data privacy standards and protect your data in accordance with our privacy policy.
How do I use “Corestad – Cookieless Tracking” with a consent banner?
For an initial Setup Guide, please visit following Blog-Article.
Will “Corestad – Cookieless Tracking” help to be fully GDPR compliant?
Our app aids in achieving GDPR compliance through eliminating the use of cookies by Google Analytics. Also, the app is fully integrated into the Shopify Customer Privacy API.
However, it’s important to note that GDPR compliance extends beyond third-party cookies alone. You need to assess and implement additional measures based on your specific business operations to ensure full compliance and only make sure GA4 is only loaded once the users has given their consent. Please look out for Customer Privacy API compliant apps in the Shopify App Store.
I activated the “GDPR Customer privacy” settings on Shopify Admin, is that enough to be GDPR compliant?
Activating the “GDPR Customer privacy” settings on Shopify Admin is an important step towards GDPR compliance. However, it is not the only requirement. You need to assess and implement additional measures to ensure compliance with GDPR regulations, such as data processing agreements, consent management, privacy policies, and data protection practices tailored to your specific business operations. Please refer to the Shopify Help Center for more information.
I use a cookie consent banner, is that not enough to be GDPR compliant?
A cookie consent banner is an essential component of GDPR compliance, as it allows users to provide informed consent for cookie usage. However, GDPR compliance involves more than just cookie consent. You need to implement a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects, such as data processing, data protection, lawful basis for processing, consent management, and privacy policies, to ensure full compliance with GDPR regulations.
Please make sure to use a Customer Privacy API compliant consent management system. You can find multiple tools in the Shopify App Store.
Is the App GDPR compliant?
Corestad-Cookieless Tracking is fully integrated in the Customer Privacy API. Please make sure you use a consent banner which complies which uses this framework.
Troubleshooting
Why can’t I see any property / web container / data stream linked after authenticating Google Analytics?
Please make sure that you both have the administrative rights to the Google Analytics 4 account and are using the correct email address to authenticate the app.
Try these steps to solve this issue:
1. Deauthorize / Disconnect from the Google Analytics Account using the button within the app.
2. Refresh the Page
3. Restart the Authentication Process and make sure you use the Analytics Account required.
In case you still encounter issues, please reach out to our support for troubleshooting.
What happens if some events don’t work, or some data is not tracked?
Please make sure to test the app in a new GA4 Web Container before switching to live mode to make sure everything is working as required.
If certain events do not work or some data is not tracked, our team is here to assist you. Please contact us at support@corestad.com with a detailed description of the issue along with your store ID and provide us with screenshots of the issues you encounter.
The traffic in Google Analytics has doubled since the installation, what can I do?
This happens if you did not deactivate any other Google Analytics App currently used on your page. Please make sure to deactivate / delete any custom code, web pixel, app, checkout pixel for Google Analytics to resolve this issue.
The app is not tracking anything, what can I do?
Please make sure you have authenticated the App successfully which can be seen through the status overview within the app configuration. Make sure both GA4 and the Data Stream has a green arrow next to them. If either is missing, please follow the steps to authenticate and connect Google Analytics from our Knowledge Base Article.
I still need help. How can I get in touch with you?
You can reach out to our support team to following e-mail address: support@corestad.com
Our team is dedicated to providing prompt assistance and resolving any inquiries or issues you may have. Once we have received your message please allow up-to two (2) business days for us to get back to you.
Please note, that we do not offer implementation consulting free of charge, only technical errors. Please reach out to us get an offer in case you require additional support on setting up the app.
Changelog
CCT v1.0
Version 1.0 comes with following features:
Authenticated Requests towards Google Analytics identifying consenting users by their Shopify User ID instead of Google’s identification, which allows to track consenting users through the Lifetime of the Shopify User ID Cookies. Improvement of Attribution, Conversion Measurement, track events properly, no double counting of transaciton values and finally correct conversion values.
– Shopify pixel extension implemented
– GA4 OAuth implemented