What is Attribution?
Marketing Attribution
Attribution is the process of assigning credit for a conversion to one or more marketing touchpoints.
Why Attribution matters
Common models: Last-click (100% credit to the last touchpoint), First-click (100% to first), Linear (equal credit all touches), Time-decay, Position-based, Data-driven. Each model produces different ROAS per channel. Post-iOS, all models are compromised — supplement with blended metrics (MER).
Common mistakes with Attribution
- 1
Tracking 200 events instead of the 5-7 that matter. Vanity metrics drown signal.
- 2
Assuming GA4 attribution is ground truth. Compare it to platform numbers and your back-end CRM — they will all disagree.
- 3
Storing all data in GA4 only. Export to BigQuery or your warehouse. Retention is limited and the deletion deadline is real.
How to improve Attribution
Define your 5-7 KPIs and build a single dashboard everyone agrees on. Cut the rest.
Audit and reduce event tracking quarterly. Every dead event costs query time and analysis fatigue.
Build incrementality testing capability. Without it, attribution is opinion not evidence.
Common questions about Attribution
What is Attribution?▾
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Related terms
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