What are Campaign Variables?

Campaign Variables were originally created for Google AdWords to help identify campaigns related to incoming traffic. However, they do not require Google AdWords and can be added to any URL.

Using a URL Builder, savvy email and social media marketers can apply campaign data to the links they share on social networks. Each parameter that’s included with the link is recorded in Google Analytics when a visitor clicks on the link and visits your site.

You can manually view campaign results in Google Analytics or use an automated reporting tool to keep track of progress and share with clients.

Hiding Campaign Variables with a URL Shortener

Campaign Variables can make links very long. The best way to shorten the link and maintain the Campaign Variables is to use a URL shortener like YOURLS or Bitly.

For example, you can add Campaign Variables for a link to a page that you plan to use in an email newsletter. The full link might look like this:

https://raventools.com/marketing-glossary/campaign-variables/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=glossary

Using YOURLS, you can shorten the link to this:

http://raven.link/cv

When a person clicks on the shortened link, YOURLS will do an SEO friendly 301 redirect to the original long URL.

Campaign Variables Resources

• Google Analytics Guide
• Google Custom Campaigns

Synonyms

• Campaign Parameters
• Custom Campaigns