Comparing Parse.ly metrics to other analytics tools

When comparing metrics across multiple content analytics tools, you may see differing results. If you see a discrepancy between Parse.ly and another tool, it is likely due to one of several reasons outlined below.

Tracking mobile versions of a site

If there is a mobile version of your site (e.g., m.yoursite.com or yoursite.mobile), it is strongly recommended to include Parse.ly’s tracking code via our Mobile Software Development Kit. Verify this integration via the Parse.ly Validator.

Depending on what percentage of visitors come to your site on mobile devices, this could account for a large discrepancy.

Tracking special webpages

Differences between Parse.ly and other analytics tools could be the result of how slideshows, multipage articles, or other special webpages are tracked.

If a page view for each slide or additional article page is counted by one tool but not the other, results will differ significantly. By default, Parse.ly attributes 1 page view to a post.  If you would like to track each slide or each post page as a page view, implement dynamic tracking.

Load times

Parse.ly’s JavaScript tracker tag loads last to ensure it does not slow down your site for visitors. If you are using other analytics tags, there may be discrepancies due to visitors clicking away from a page after one tag loads but before the other.

Incorrect configuration

Consult Parse.ly’s integration guide for a comprehensive list of the steps involved in a successful implementation.

Different metric definitions

Other analytics tools may consider a unique visitor, the actions for engaged minutes, or other metrics differently than Parse.ly. Ensure you understand the definition of the metric you’re considering in each analytics tool.

Different timespans

Double-check that you’re using the same timespan in both places when comparing Parse.ly data to another analytics tool. For example, if the Parse.ly Dashboard has been set to display the last 24 hours and another tool has been set to “today,” there may be discrepancies.