Google Merchant Center to Remove 4 Attribution Models from Conversion Tracking

Google Merchant Center has recently announced that it will be removing four attribution models from its conversion tracking feature. These models, including first-click, linear, time decay, and position-based attribution, will no longer be available for selection when setting up the conversion source starting in 2024. Instead, all conversion sources still utilizing these models will be switched to data-driven attribution. This change will greatly impact how marketers analyze and attribute conversions, which is crucial for identifying effective channels, touchpoints, and strategies. However, marketers who do not wish to use data-driven attribution can still opt for the last-click model. This news comes after Google confirmed the retirement of these models from all properties in Google Ads and Google Analytics, citing low adoption rates. Switching to data-driven attribution typically results in a 6% increase in conversions for advertisers. For more information on how to choose the appropriate attribution model and conversion window, marketers can refer to Google’s Select Attribution Settings documentation.

Models being removed

Google Merchant Center will remove the ability to select four rules-based attribution models when setting up the conversion source in 2024. The models being removed are:

• First-click.
• Linear.
• Time decay.
• Position-based.

These models have been commonly used for conversion tracking, but Google has decided to retire them due to low adoption rates. Starting in April 2024, any conversion sources still using these models will be automatically switched to data-driven attribution.

Switch to data-driven attribution

With the removal of the four attribution models, conversion sources that were previously using them will be switched to data-driven attribution. Data-driven attribution is a more advanced model that uses machine learning algorithms to assign credit to different touchpoints along the customer journey based on their influence on conversions. This model provides a more accurate representation of the impact of each marketing channel.

Last-click model option

For marketers who do not want to use data-driven attribution, Google will offer the option to use the last-click model for conversions instead. The last-click model attributes 100% of the credit for a conversion to the last touchpoint that the customer interacted with before converting. While this model provides a simple solution, it may not accurately reflect the true impact of other touchpoints on the customer journey.

Impact on marketing analysis

The removal of these attribution models will have a significant impact on how marketers analyze and attribute conversions. Attribution is the process of determining which marketing channels, touchpoints, or strategies are responsible for driving conversions. By understanding the contribution of each element, marketers can optimize their marketing efforts and make informed decisions about resource allocation.

Identifying effective channels

Attribution models are crucial for identifying effective marketing channels. They help marketers understand which channels are driving the most conversions and where to allocate their advertising budget. By analyzing data from different attribution models, marketers can determine the true impact of channels such as search ads, display ads, social media, email marketing, and more.

Identifying effective touchpoints

Attribution models also help in identifying effective touchpoints along the customer journey. A touchpoint refers to any interaction a customer has with a brand, such as visiting a website, clicking on an ad, or signing up for a newsletter. By analyzing attribution data, marketers can determine which touchpoints are most influential in driving conversions. This knowledge allows marketers to optimize their strategies and focus on the touchpoints that have the highest impact.

Identifying effective strategies

Attribution models play a crucial role in identifying effective marketing strategies. They help marketers understand which strategies, such as specific ad campaigns or promotional offers, are driving the most conversions. By analyzing attribution data, marketers can identify the strategies that have the highest impact and replicate their success in future campaigns.

Informed decision-making

Attribution models enable informed decision-making. By understanding the contribution of each marketing element to conversions, marketers can make data-backed decisions about where to invest their resources. For example, if a particular channel or strategy is consistently driving a high number of conversions, marketers can allocate more budget to that area and optimize their campaigns accordingly. Conversely, if a channel or strategy is underperforming, marketers can make adjustments to improve its effectiveness.

Resource allocation

Attribution models are important for resource allocation. They provide insights into which marketing activities are generating the best return on investment (ROI). By accurately attributing conversions to specific elements, marketers can distribute their budget and resources in a way that maximizes ROI. This ensures that marketing efforts are focused on the most effective channels, touchpoints, and strategies.

Deep dive

For more information on how to choose the reporting attribution model and conversion window for your property, you can refer to Google’s documentation on selecting attribution settings. The documentation provides a deep dive into the topic and offers guidance on making the best choices for your marketing analytics.

In conclusion, the removal of the four attribution models in Google Merchant Center will have a significant impact on how marketers analyze and attribute conversions. While data-driven attribution offers more accurate insights, marketers will also have the option to use the last-click model. Attribution models are crucial for identifying effective channels, touchpoints, and strategies, enabling informed decision-making and resource allocation. It is important for marketers to understand and adapt to these changes to optimize their marketing efforts and drive better results.