Create UTM tracking codes

Owned by caitlin (Deactivated)
Last updated: Feb 15, 2024
2 min read
  • UTM tracking codes should be built for reusability instead of being one time things so there will be no issue if a link/QR code is reused without checking with web team first.
  • All links used for this should be done through redirects as a CYA/future proofing measure. This means a QR code should never be made with the full URL that has UTM tracking values in it.
    •  Analogy: The short URL redirect we build is like a PO Box while the fully defined URL with the UTM code visible is our permanent address. We can move as much as we want and still get our mail.
    • This means even if we want to change the tracking codes, all we have to do is update the redirect and any printed pieces will still function without needing to be remade.

Add an entry to the tracking code document

  1. Open the QR code/UTM URLs Google Sheet 
  2. Scroll to the bottom to find an open line & fill it in accordingly:
    1. Column A: a link to Trello card for this request/initiative
    2. Column B: a brief description about what this tracking is being used on
    3. Column C: the date range of when the campaign runs or the print piece will be arriving in homes
    4. Column D: the URL of the destination page (where you want your users to end up)
    5. Column E: where this QR/link is being distributed
      1. There is a set dropdown of selections
      2. See UTM Naming Convention tab for more details on what the options mean how these should be paired up with Column F
    6. Column F: how the link is being displayed
      1. There is a set dropdown of selections
      2. See UTM Naming Convention tab for more details on what the options mean and how these should be paired up with Column E
    7. Column G: shortened code name of campaign
      1. These should be short codes for the campaign as a whole, not an individual piece. Always make sure you are looking at the big picture when choosing a name
      2. See UTM Naming Convention tab for more details on how to choose a name for the campaign
    8. Column H: redirect URL created in Cascade
      1. This should follow the campaign name from Column G and end with -qr  or the appropriate value from Column F.
      2. Do not add for ones that are being written in print pieces, those should be simple and aesthetically appealing
    9. Column J: (automated) Full URL with tracking code that is what the redirect points to
  3. To have this page accessible from a cnu.edu URL, you will need to follow the instructions to create a redirect.
    You can either create a standard redirect or a redirect for a QR code, make sure to follow the correct instructions.