How It Works
99dev analytics utilizes a familiar approach at it’s core - a tracking pixel. However, just below the surface there are several unique technical aspects that set us apart from our peers.
The Javascript Snippet
It all starts with the JS snippet which:
- Reads the URL, referrer, and a few other data points about the page and browser.
- Constructs a tracking pixel URL using the Site UUID from the
<script>tag and the page and browser info. - Injects the tracking pixel into the page.
- Removes the pixel from the page once after it’s loaded.
Open Source
The analytics JS snippet is open source and written in Typescript. It’s available for inspection and forking on Github and installation via npm.
https://github.com/99devco/analytics
The Tracking Pixel
The tracking pixel is a single transparent pixel who’s URL includes all of the info for the traffic record. It is:
- Completely transparent to the visitor
- Loads asynchronously
- Doesn’t block page rendering
- Respects user privacy
- Works with all modern browsers
Read more about what we do and do not track here.
Location / Timezone
We utilize a unique approach leveraging the visitor’s Timezone setting to detect their approximate geolocation. This preserves the user’s anonymity and allows us to avoid IP address inspection or any cryptographic nonsense to store it. In fact, we never inspect or store the IP of requests in any way.
Trade-Offs
While privacy preserving, this approach relies on the user’s self-reported timezone which can be manipulated or omitted.
Visitors / Pages Per Visit
We utilize a unique approach leveraging Session Storage to differentiate between visits with multiple page views and new visits. This preserves complete user anonymity and doesn’t store anything on your users’ browsers after they close their window or tab.
This approach is also more reliable than IP and User Agent fingerprinting on shared networks such as hotels, apartment buildings, and conferences.
Trade-Offs
While privacy preserving, this approach does not differentiate between visitors who have visited your site previously vs those visiting for the first time.