Very interesting article in Website Magazine today about where should you place analytics code (such as Google Analytics).

Should you place it at the end of the page or at the beginning of the page?

Let’s talk about why at the beginning of the page.
If you have a slow loading page, by placing the code at the beginning (at the top) you will immediately track that page and the server won’t log this page as slow. Since some search engines (e.g. Google.com) are now adding into the formula the amount of time it takes to load a page as part of the ranking of your site, it makes sense to place it immediately at the top of your page so it tracks quicker.

Let’s talk about why at the bottom of the page.
If the analytics engine you are using is a slow one or even down, by placing the code at the bottom of the page, allows your site to load quickly and even if the analytics server is down, it won’t affect the overall page.

So top or bottom? Why ask me again? Read the above descriptions and you pick one!’

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Website Magazine