In this Buyer’s Guide for Web Site Analytics Tools, you’ll learn the industry jargon for Web Analytics and related industries, common features, which features you need, the major analytics vendors, some other companies worth noting, and the big players in the international market.

By Justin Whitney
Technology Writer & Consultant

Many Internet lifetimes have passed since the first traffic counters gave basic data analysis for the early Web sites. The current generation of analysis tools give online business owners a much more fine-tuned understanding of they way customers use their site.

Now that the Web is a part of nearly every business strategy, even non-techie companies find it worth their while to pay closer attention to their sites. Even if the Web isn’t central to your business, you’ll want to make your site the best marketing or support resource for your business.

To optimize your business site based on the ways that people currently use it, and to hone your online marketing by analyzing the effects of your current campaigns, you’ll want one of the analytical tools discussed in this guide. We’ll take you through the benefits of Web analytics and break down the different options so you’ll know what you need. This guide also gives you some tips on making sure you get programs and services that will support your growth – and making sure you work with effective and reputable vendors.

Introduction

An overview of the function of Web site analytics and the ways it can help improve your business. Read More »

Jargon Watch

Definitions of the Web analytics industry lingo -- all the industry terms you'll need to know. Read More »

How It Works & What You Need

We tell you about the functionality of your typical analytics package so you'll know what to look for. Read More »

Features Recommended by Type of Site

We point out key functions that you'll need to support your particular business (content, retail, marketing, etc.). Read More »

Shopping for Web Analytics

Who's out there? Here's a list of vendors, with some info. to help you choose among the multitude. Read More »

What Do I Do with this Data?

Tips on the next step: putting your analysis to good use. Read More »