Why free web analytics tools aren’t free

There isn’t a lack of tools currently out on the market to measure the performance of your online properties.  Some of these tools are “free,” such as Google and Yahoo Analytics and there are a variety of excellent nearly free tools such as ClickTale, CrazyEgg, Woopra, Flurry (for mobile apps), and 4Q (for surveys).  Others, such as Adobe’s Omniture or Webtrends are priced based on volume.

A research study put out by the respected Aberdeen Group has examined the value of these paid solutions, and concluded that paid solutions such as Omniture are not only worth it, but may in fact be cheaper than the “free” tools when all factors are considered.

While there are tremendous benefits to using these tools, the trick is to get the right tool for the job and to put it in the hands of those who will take action once they gain insights.

Hidden Costs of Free Tools like Google Analytics

Starting from the beginning, it is important to first address why it is that “free” tools such as Google Analytics are not really free. read more