The landscape of online marketing has witnessed rapid evolution in recent years, and along with it, new challenges have emerged. One such challenge revolves around data collection and analysis, which are vital for the success of marketing endeavors. This is where the concept of Server-Side Tracking comes into play – an advanced method that holds the potential to revolutionize online marketing.
What is Server-Side Tracking?
Server-Side Tracking is a method used to collect data on user behavior regarding websites. In contrast to conventional Client-Side Tracking, which involves storing data through JavaScript tags (cookies) in the user’s browser, Server-Side Tracking collects data on the server side. This method opens up new avenues for understanding user behavior, optimizing SEO, and enhancing the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.
Server-Side Tracking vs. Client-Side Tracking: The Shift in Methods
Historically, Client-Side Tracking – which employs third-party cookies in the user’s browser – was the dominant data collection method. However, recent changes have altered the landscape. Privacy regulations, ad blockers, and browser features like Intelligent Tracking Prevention have limited the efficacy of Client-Side Tracking.
Advantages of Server-Side Tracking: Enhanced Control, Precision, and Security
Server-Side Tracking offers a range of advantages that make it an appealing alternative to Client-Side Tracking. One of the most notable features is the heightened precision of collected data. As the server acts as an intermediary, the data is more accurate and less susceptible to ad blockers or tracking limitations.
Another significant advantage is the increased security of data collection. The generated data isn’t transmitted directly to third parties but is stored on the website’s own server. This gives website operators greater control over which data is transmitted and how it’s used.
Moreover, Server-Side Tracking positively impacts page speed, which in turn boosts SEO rankings. Faster website loading not only enhances user experience but also signals search engines that the site offers high-quality content.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the numerous benefits, Server-Side Tracking also presents challenges. Implementation can be more complex compared to Client-Side Tracking, and there are concerns regarding data visibility and user privacy.
Nonetheless, Server-Side Tracking offers a promising solution to the current challenges in online marketing. It allows for better control over collected data, increased precision, and improved data security.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, Server-Side Tracking presents a promising approach to address the current challenges in online marketing. With higher data precision, increased control, and enhanced security, it provides an optimal solution for marketing managers, social media managers, IT developers, and data analysts. In a landscape where around 71% of marketing and user data is lost, Server-Side Tracking can steer the ship in the right direction. It enables more precise analysis, more effective attribution models, and a comprehensive capture of the customer journey. This is crucial for improving marketing campaign performance and achieving desired outcomes.
Why working with Corestad?
- At Corestad, we are the experts behind the experts. We’ve provided consultation to digital agencies, media agencies, and marketers across Europe.
- Our expertise stems from a wealth of experience across hundreds of tracking setups. With a dedicated team of developers and DevOps specialists, proficient in various languages including Node.JS, Python, PHP, and Ruby, as well as a multitude of frameworks, we bring a consolidated knowledge base to the table.
- We offer a hosted solution for Google Tag Manager (GTM), yet we’re flexible to install the solution on your cloud or on-premise, tailored to your preferences.
- What sets us apart is our commitment to ensuring a 100% GDPR-compliant GTM setup, in contrast to Google’s automated GTM setup.
- When you partner with Corestad, you’re choosing a powerhouse of specialized skills, tailored solutions, and unwavering data privacy standards.