Using ra_source for Marketing Source Attribution

Overview

ra_source is a URL parameter you can add to your ad destination URLs. When Ruler sees it, it knows with certainty which platform that traffic came from.

You don't need to change or remove your existing UTM source parameters. Simply add ra_source alongside them.

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We would recommend the ra_source paramater is used as a fallback if you cannot update the structure of your existing utm_source / utm_medium paramaters.

Rulers out the box guidance follows many ad platforms best practices so we would guide to follow where possible.

How to Add ra_source

Append it to your ad destination URL as a query parameter.

Basic example

https://yourwebsite.com/landing-page?ra_source=google

If Your URL already has parameters and you're already using the UTM parameters, add ra_source with an ampersand (&) to append to the end.

ra_source example

https://yourwebsite.com/landing-page?utm_source=ads&utm_campaign=spring-sale&utm_medium=cpc&ra_source=google

Supported Ruler Source platforms

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Important Note

ra_source allows for correct Marketing Source level attribution only and is a solution to overcome inability to update your utm_source values.

It is still imperative you append the required value track ID parameters to your Ad platform destination URLs to allow for use of Rulers reports. Gaps in the required and recommended IDs can lead to (notset) data in your reports.

Following each ad platforms recommended URL tagging docs above will allow you to ensure you have all requirements met.