Classifications overview

A classification is a way of categorizing Analytics variable data, then displaying the data in different ways when you generate reports. You establish a relationship between a variable value and metadata related to that value. Classifications can be used on most custom dimensions, such as Tracking code, props, and eVars.

Classification sets are the primary way to classify data. Classification rules and the Classification importer are legacy methods to classify data. All classification data ultimately operates the same in reporting; you can combine any of these methods to best fit your organization’s workflow.

• Classification sets: Create and manage classifications and their rules in a single, simplified interface.
• Classification rules (legacy): Create rules that assign a given dimension item to a classification dimension item. This method to classify data is best when a dimension frequently encounters new unique values or where manual classifications would be frequent and burdensome.
• Classification importer (legacy): Export a template spreadsheet with dimension items in each row. Columns represent each classification for a dimension. This method to classify data is best when all dimension items are known and does not require frequent updating.

A single dimension can have multiple classification dimensions. For example, you can classify Product IDs with additional product attributes, such as product name, color, size, description, and SKU. Each of these attributes would be a separate classification dimension belonging to the same parent dimension. Augmenting your reports with these attributes provides deeper and more complex reporting opportunities. Once a dimension contains classification data, the classification dimension is available in reporting that contains only classification dimension items. Any parent dimension item that does not contain a classification value is grouped under Unspecified