How Do You Set Up Custom Dashboards in Google Analytics? #

A custom dashboard in Google Analytics helps you track key metrics efficiently. It provides a personalized view of data relevant to your business. Instead of sifting through multiple reports, you get a centralized, at-a-glance overview of your website’s performance.

This guide walks you through setting up a custom dashboard step by step.

Why Use Custom Dashboards? #

A custom dashboard simplifies data analysis. It allows you to focus on the most important metrics. Here are some key benefits:

• Saves Time: Access essential insights without navigating multiple reports.
• Enhances Decision-Making: See trends and patterns quickly.
• Customizable Layouts: Tailor dashboards to your specific needs.
• Improves Team Collaboration: Share reports with key stakeholders easily.

By setting up custom dashboards, you can streamline data tracking and optimize your marketing strategies.

Steps to Set Up a Custom Dashboard #

1. Access the Customization Menu #

To start, log in to Google Analytics and follow these steps:

1. Click Customization in the left-side menu.
2. Select Dashboards from the dropdown.
3. Click the Create button to begin setting up a new dashboard.

This takes you to the dashboard creation page.

2. Choose a Dashboard Type #

Google Analytics offers two dashboard options:

• Blank Dashboard: Build a fully customized layout from scratch.
• Starter Dashboard: Includes pre-set widgets for a quick setup.

Select the one that best suits your needs. If you want full control over your data, choose a blank dashboard.

3. Add Widgets to Display Key Metrics #

Widgets allow you to display specific data points. To add a widget:

1. Click + Add Widget in the dashboard view.
2. Choose a widget type (e.g., table, pie chart, timeline).
3. Select the metric you want to track (e.g., sessions, conversions, bounce rate).
4. Apply filters to refine your data.
5. Click Save to add the widget to your dashboard.

You can add multiple widgets to create a comprehensive overview.

4. Customize and Organize Your Dashboard #

Now that you have added widgets, arrange them in a logical order. Drag and resize widgets to improve readability. You can also:

• Rename widgets for clarity.
• Apply segments to compare different data sets.
• Adjust the time range to analyze specific periods.

A well-organized dashboard makes it easier to interpret data quickly.

5. Share and Automate Reports #

Sharing dashboards with your team improves collaboration. To do this:

1. Click Share at the top of the dashboard.
2. Choose whether to share a template link or grant view access.

For automated updates, schedule reports via email:

1. Click Email on the dashboard page.
2. Select recipients and frequency (daily, weekly, monthly).
3. Click Send to automate report delivery.

Regular reporting keeps your team informed without manual effort.

Best Practices for Custom Dashboards #

Follow these tips to maximize your dashboard’s effectiveness:

• Focus on Key Metrics: Avoid clutter by tracking only essential data points.
• Use Clear Labels: Ensure widgets have descriptive names.
• Limit Widgets Per Dashboard: Too many widgets can overwhelm users. Stick to 6–12.
• Refine Over Time: Update dashboards based on evolving business needs.

By keeping your dashboard streamlined, you ensure that data remains actionable.

Conclusion #

A custom dashboard in Google Analytics simplifies data tracking and helps you make data-driven decisions. By following these steps, you can create a dashboard tailored to your business goals.

Need help optimizing your analytics setup? Email Ikonik Digital at [email protected] for expert guidance.

Glenford Scott

Glenford Scott is the Founder & Director of Ikonik Digital, a performance-driven marketing agency helping brands scale with strategy, storytelling, and smart execution.

With years of experience driving results across industries, from hospitality to education — Glenford specializes in turning clicks into customers and ideas into revenue.