Google introduces a fresh feature called “Saved Comparisons” for Analytics

Google introduces a new tool called “Saved Comparisons” in GA4, allowing users to save customized segment filters for quick analysis. This feature enables users to save filtered user data segments and compare them side by side efficiently. According to Google, this tool aims to help users save time when comparing their desired user bases, eliminating the need to recreate comparisons each time.

We’re launching saved comparisons to help you save time when comparing the user bases you care about. Learn how you can do that without recreating the comparison every time! → https://t.co/29nN2MiPtm pic.twitter.com/r8924rAT05

— Google Analytics (@googleanalytics) May 8, 2024

Saved comparisons: How they function

The recently introduced comparison tool enables users to craft tailored filtered perspectives of Google Analytics data, utilizing dimensions such as platform, country, traffic source, and custom audiences.

These dimensions support the incorporation of multiple conditions through logic operators.

For instance, users can generate a comparison that segregates “Android OR iOS” traffic from web traffic. Alternatively, they can integrate location data such as “Country = Argentina OR Japan” with platform filters.

These customized comparison perspectives can then be stored at the property level within Analytics.

Users with appropriate access rights can swiftly apply saved comparisons to any report, facilitating efficient analysis without the need to reconstruct filters.

According to Google’s documentation:

“As an administrator or editor…you have the ability to save comparisons to your Google Analytics 4 property. Saved comparisons empower you and others with access to compare the user bases you care about without having to recreate the comparisons each time.”

Deployment process and restrictions

The introduction of the saved comparisons feature is being implemented progressively. Each property has a maximum limit of 200 saved comparisons.

For more intricate filtering requirements, like sequences of user events, Google advises creating a custom audience initially and then saving a comparison based on that audience definition.

Certain reports may not be compatible if they lack the filtered dimensions utilized in a saved comparison. In such instances, the documentation recommends selecting alternative dimensions or conditions suitable for that report type.

Why SEJ Finds It Important

The introduction of saved comparisons tackles a labor-intensive aspect of analytics.

Analyzing data requires examining it from various perspectives, such as device, location, and traffic source segmentation. Reconstructing these filtered comparisons manually for every report can impede productivity.

In an environment where data teams are often pressed for time, any innovation that simplifies routine tasks is highly valued.

How this can benefit you

Saved comparisons offer a solution to the time-consuming task of recreating filters, allowing for more efficient analysis.

Here are several ways this feature could improve your workflow:

• Save time by eliminating the need to recreate filters for common comparisons like mobile vs desktop, traffic sources, and geographical locations.
• Facilitate collaboration by sharing saved comparisons with colleagues to ensure consistent analysis views.
• Effortlessly switch between comprehensive views and isolated comparisons with just one click.
• Analyze conversions, engagement metrics, audience origins, and more using your saved user segments.
• Employ carefully crafted conditions to identify targeted segments, such as paid traffic for specific products or locations.
• While the introduction of saved comparisons in Google Analytics may appear to be a small change, streamlining workflows and reducing time spent on routine tasks can significantly enhance productivity.

This article available in Ukrainian.