MappingTheWeb //

I’ve been messing with a lot of web analytic programs recently. I’ve been disappointed with some, but surprised by others. Most notably, I’ve used Google Analytics, 103 bees, Enquisite, MyBlogLog, and my default web hosting stats. Then along came Clicky…

I’m definitely not saying that this is the best web analytics tool ever made, but it’s a simple, effective solution to what many believe to be a complicated process. Clicky is essentially a free, real-time web analytics tool. Yes, it’s free and real-time.

Once logged in, there are 6 main pages. The default start page provides an overview of the past couple days or weeks. Subsequent secondary pages include “Visitors”, “Clicks”, “Links”,  “Searches”, and “Pages”. The interface is extremely clean, easy-to-use, and intuitive. Navigation is a breeze. I think this is the reason I like the system so much. Plus, set-up simply involves creating an account and pasting a piece of JavaScript code in yor HTML.

Obviously the system tracks the de facto numbers such as page views, uniques, and visits. But it has a few added features that may be of use:

• An IP blocker can be used to mask internal site use.
• Web statistic RSS feeds can be pulled.
• Numerous sites can be monitored off the same dashboard.
• The date, time, and target page of every click are displayed.

… just to name a few.

Like I say, try it out and see for yourself. It’s free and easy to implement.

Google Analytics seems to be the stand-out web statistic solution at this point. But Clicky is a small solution that is super easy-to-use and very useful. Enquisite, 103 bees, and MyBlogLog are all useful as well, but in their respective areas of strength.

I’ve also dabbled with AW Stats in the past. However, I have yet to try Mint, so don’t grill me on this just yet.