The only drawback is the tracking image. It is HUGE (compared to the industry standard 1x1 tracking image), and it links out to content that does me absolutely no good.
Anyone tried customizing the tracking code to minimize the ill effects of the image? Any tips?
<img height=0 width=0
Probably (not sure) is against their TOS. and I would not do it, but I'd bet it will work.
Probably (not sure) is against their TOS. and I would not do it, but I'd bet it will work.
Yep, it is. The image shouldn't be manipulated in any way.
I've gotta run to a meeting, but will come back later and point to the spot in the Terms and Conditions where this is discussed.
AWA
I have to admit, I don't use the ROI feature on a lot of my campaigns simply because it's SOOO big and ugly. (Wrote my own instead :))
It causes them to lack vital conversion data which would greatly assist them in detecting and efficiently dealing with AdWords / AdSense fraud.
It is my belief that it only a matter of time before some VP rollsback that silly requirement.
I have some techniques which lets me be able to get rid of the tracking image and still get accurate statistics. Unfortunately, I'm not going to share them because I'm sure Google would foolishly find a way to stop it.
With the graphic and their policy they can say they are informing the consumer about tracking.
AdWordsAdvisor - Could you explain why this is against the TOS?
Well, nyet essentially hit it. The purpose it to let the user know they are being tracked.
The conversion image has got to be one of AdWords biggest business mistakes.
As with any facet of the AdWords program, if you feel strongly about something, you are encouraged to write us and let us know your opinion.
Believe it or not, your feedback is valued and listened to. This is a big part of the reason I asked to post here, btw. It is a great place to hear meaningful feedback from advertisers who are at all levels, but with a high percentage of very serious long-term advertisers. AdWords wants to learn from our advertisers, about what our Advertisers want.
As most of you know, I compile feedback from a variety of sources each week - with WebmasterWorld being amongst the most important - and pass it on to people who are in a real position to make a difference.
Just as I'll pass on the feedback in this thread.
So, thanks
AWA
The purpose it to let the user know they are being tracked.
While this is nice, I don't think many other tracking programs tell people this. Some do it in a privacy policy or Terms of Service, but I don't think its required.
I understand that G does more than is required, and it is a free tracking program, thus maybe they want some credit.
Most people I know (myself included) would use this program, even if its just to double check numbers, however, I won't as long as there is a visible image tied to it.
I would like to see this requirement go away, and G to move towards how the other tracking programs are done, either java or 1x1 invis pixel for tracking purposes.
I would amend my privacy/TOS policies if it was required by G to let people know that I'm using it.
i was very excited to learn that google had decided to implement tracking; considerably less excited to learn of the big image.
i believe that after establishing trust with site visitors and moving them along to a purchase decision/desired action... the appearance of a large image - totally unrelated to site content - may have a disorienting effect.... and all "trust" goes out the window because they feel like they've been somehow duped.
even though they haven't.
(i'd also be willing to ammend our privacy policy, if necessary, in order to use google tracking without an image.)
Perhaps Google could issue strict creative guidelines for a co-branded image?
