Macros (Tokens)

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Macros, also called Tokens, are special placeholders in CPV tracker (CPV Lab or CPV One) campaign URLs that automatically get replaced with real values by the traffic source at click time. They are the mechanism by which parameters are populated. While parameters define what data is captured, macros/tokens define how data is inserted into campaign URLs.

Why Macros Matter

  • Automation: Eliminate the need to manually input campaign data.
  • Consistency: Ensure uniform data capture across all campaigns.
  • Dynamic Tracking: Every click has unique identifiers filled in by macros.
  • Traffic Source Integration: CPV tracker templates rely on macros to align with source data fields.

How Macros Work in CPV Tracker

  1. Setup
    • In the campaign URL, you include macros like {keyword}, {campaignid}, or {placement}.
  2. Replacement by Traffic Source
    • At click time, the traffic source replaces the macro with the actual value.
    • Example: {keyword} → “cheap+insurance”.
  3. Captured by CPV Tracker
    • The value is stored in the tracker and available for reporting, segmentation, and optimization.

Example

A campaign URL might include macros like this:

https://tracker.com/click?c=123&cid={clickid}&placement={placement}&device={device}

At runtime:

https://tracker.com/click?c=123&cid=987654&placement=site123&device=mobile
  • {clickid} is replaced with the source’s unique click ID.
  • {placement} shows the ad placement.
  • {device} identifies the user’s device.

Benefits

  • Precise Tracking: Ensures data like Click ID and keyword are always captured.
  • Optimization: Use macros to track EPC by device, GEO, or placement.
  • Traffic Source Feedback: Essential for postbacks and API syncs.
  • Flexibility: Each traffic source has unique macros, and CPV tracker supports custom mapping.

Common Macros in CPV Tracker

  • {clickid} → Unique click identifier.
  • {keyword} → Search query or keyword.
  • {placement} → Placement ID or site ID.
  • {campaignid} → Source campaign ID.
  • {device} → User’s device type.

Best Practices

  • Always use official CPV tracker templates for each traffic source (to ensure macros are correct).
  • Test macros by running clicks and checking logged reports.
  • Use macros for critical identifiers like Click ID for postback accuracy.
  • Don’t overload URLs with unnecessary macros; focus on actionable data points.

In summary, Macros (Tokens) are the engine behind parameterized tracking in the CPV tracker (CPV Lab or CPV One). They transform placeholders into actionable data, ensuring every click is tracked with maximum precision.

See also: Parameters, Campaign URL, Postback Tracking, Traffic Source Templates

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