Common mistakes made with Google Analytics

[Surely MacLaine]

Remember, multiple instances of tracking code can skew your site traffic data so make sure and verify on instance of tracking script.

[kipjmejia]

• Not tagging all pages. This thing isn't working! I'm not seeing any results. Most likely it's because you haven't tagged all of your pages with GA's code. I know, this is basic, right? But this should be your starting point every time something is wrong. If you use Google Chrome, just right click and select the developer tools. You can do a CTRL (command on a Mac)+F lookup to see if the code is on each page.
• Launching without a strategy. Big mistake! How do I know this is working?!?! Liz called out an industry expert that my boss, Thaddeus Hanscom, recently turned me on to as a good resource for reading up on Google Analytics strategy. If you don't already know who Avinash Kaushik is, he is worth a follow. He's a strong thought leader in this category, and somebody who I routinely share to my network.
• Treating all data as the same priority. What is working? There's so much data and reporting; the focus needs to be on a few meaningful report. This is very consistent with our desire at the Oregonian Media Group to provide insights>data. Start with source traffic and work your way out to more complexity. At some point you'll want to work into non-linear conversion paths. Slow your roll first. Too much data can be paralysis by analysis.