Forum Moderators: DixonJones
much appreciated, thanks
This section identifies the pages visitors were on when they left the site. These percentages refer to the total number of visitor sessions that started with a valid Document Type. If the session started on a document with a different type (such as a graphic or sound file), the file is not counted as an Exit Page, and the session is not counted in the total. Such sessions are often the product of other sites referencing a specific downloadable file or graphic for example on the site. In such cases, a session may have a single hit to a non-document type file, and will not be counted for the percentage calculations.Use this statistic to determine your visitors' satisfaction with their visits. Visitors may have left this page once they found what they were looking for, or they have lost interest or determined the content didn't apply, or for many other reasons. For example, if your top exit page is your home page, this may be an indication that you need a better approach.
I don't necessarily agree with that last sentence above. I can't count the number of times I've performed searches and have clicked through the SERP's scanning information. I rarely go past the first page, and when I do, I usually have found what I'm looking for from the page I accessed the site at which is normally a home page.
Also keep in mind that if you are in development stages and trying to makes heads or tails of the reports they won't mean much unless your host has blocked the IP's for those who are developing.
This section identifies the pages on the site that visitors access and exit without viewing any other page. This demonstrates where visitors enter and leave immediately. These percentages refer to the total number of visitor sessions that started with a valid Document Type. If the session started on a document with a different type (such as a graphic or sound file), the file is not counted as a Single Access Page, and the session is not included in the total.This information can be helpful when considering the design of the site with respect to the type of visitors. Consider how well these pages convey your message. Do they need improvement to extend visitor sessions, or is it possible that are you attracting the wrong visitors with references to your site?
I could have easily come in your site through the front door, wondered around a bit, and then left through the front door. That would count as an Exit Page.
Now, if you have a high percentage of Single Access Pages and your home page is at the top, then keep a close eye on that. If its in the 70-100% range, then you may have some problems. The lower that number, the more sticky your site may be. I typically find that if the home page sparks an interest with the user, they will travel further. Its the front door of your online home. Look at how much people spend on entrance ways for their real homes!
You cannot look at any one area of the report and get a clear picture. There are many factors involved. Spider activity, paid inclusion programs, PPC, etc... will all have an overall affect on your stats.
Can I assume that you are looking at a Web Trends report? If so, best thing to do is look at every section and read the help cards above and below. You'll have a better understanding of the report after that.
thanks again.
