My Favorite Web Analytics Books
March 14, 2011 in Website Analytics
There’s no better way to learn new skills than to read books written by experts in the field. This is certainly the case with web analytics. Luckily there are quite a few great titles written by authors showcasing their knowledge and expertise in website analytics.
Here is my short list of recommended books for those who are interested in web analytics or, for that matter, anyone interested in improving their results online. Go to Amazon.com, stop by your local Borders bookstore, or download a copy to your Kindle. I think you’ll find they’re worth the read and you’ll be anxious to put all your new knowledge to use right away.
Best Books on Web Analytics
- Web Analytics Demystified – This book by Eric T. Peterson was one of the first web analytics books that I ever read. The concepts never go out of date. Be sure to check out Peterson’s website as well at www.webanalyticsdemystified.com for even more great information.
- Web Analytics – An Hour a Day and Web Analytics 2.0 – Can I call Avinash Kaushik the father of web analytics? Not sure, but if you’re ever listening to a webinar or at a conference on web analytics, most likely Kaushik’s name (or something he’s written) will be brought up. If you want to keep current in the field, be sure to follow @avinash on Twitter and read his blog Occam’s Razor.
- Social Media Metrics – Many businesses struggle to identify, gather, and make good use of social media metrics. Author Jim Sterne has written a great book to help businesses maximize their social media ROI. And isn’t that what we are all hoping to do?
- Advanced Web Metrics with Google Analytics – Brian Clifton’s book is a must for anyone working with Google Analytics. Great technical info as well on Google Analytics API and integration with 3rd party apps.
Books on Conversion Testing & Optimization
Conversion testing and analytics go hand in hand so I would be remiss to leave out books on online testing and optimization. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Waiting for Your Cat to Bark? and Call to Action as well as the most recent book: Always be testing. All by best-selling authors (and brothers) Bryan and Jeffrey Eisenberg. Timeless, practical advice for anyone who is looking to achieve success through their online efforts.
- Landing Page Optimization – The Definitive Guide to Testing & Tuning for Conversions. Tim Ash writes about landing page optimization and setting up A/B and multivariate tests. You’ll be ready to start testing as soon as you put this book down.
