Discrepancy in Google Ads Data Transfer Data and Platform

[sarahbrabec]

Hi all,

I am running into an issue where occasionally there are discrepancies between the google ads data transfer and the platform. This only occurs for specific campaigns, and it isn't a time zone or conversion window issue. Has anyone had a similar issue? 

[Snoshone07]

Hi @sarahbrabec I understand how frustrating it can be to deal with discrepancies between your Google Ads data in BigQuery and what’s displayed on the Google Ads platform, especially when it’s isolated to specific campaigns. Here’s a structured approach to identify and resolve the issue:

1. Investigate Campaign-Specific Factors

Since the discrepancies are tied to certain campaigns, it’s worth exploring these possibilities:

• Campaign Type:
  Check if the affected campaigns are using unique formats like Performance Max or Shopping Ads, or if they involve experimental features. These can sometimes cause incomplete exports to BigQuery.

• Custom Metrics or Columns:
  If you’re relying on custom metrics or columns in Google Ads, ensure these are properly included in your BigQuery transfer configuration. Missing settings could result in incomplete data.

2. Review Data Transfer Configuration

Misaligned configurations can cause small discrepancies.

• Ensure All Data Fields Are Included:
  Double-check that the transfer setup captures all relevant metrics and dimensions specific to the affected campaigns.

• Data Sampling:
  For very large datasets, Google Ads may sample data in the platform but not in BigQuery. Compare data to confirm if sampling is a factor.

3. Consider Data Latency and Processing Delays

Discrepancies can sometimes result from delays in data synchronization.

• Sync Timing Differences:
  Check if the discrepancies resolve after 24-48 hours, as delayed syncing could be causing the mismatch.

• Timezone Settings:
  While you’ve ruled out a timezone issue, it’s worth rechecking the transfer’s timezone alignment to ensure there aren’t minor offsets.

4. Explore Alternative Tools

If the discrepancies persist and are difficult to pinpoint, using an alternative tool like Windsor.ai might help streamline your data pipeline.

Why Windsor.ai?

• Real-Time Data Syncing:
  Windsor.ai offers near real-time synchronization, reducing the risk of discrepancies between platforms.

• Detailed and Granular Reporting:
  Customize data imports to ensure campaign-specific details are accurately captured in BigQuery.

• Advanced Error Handling:
  Gain insights into discrepancies with detailed error reporting, making troubleshooting easier.

Hope this helps !