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Paid ads tracking

Outbrain tracking

Outbrain tracking with the pixel or server-to-server conversions, the ob_click_id passed through your tracker, and section and publisher data captured for placement decisions.

4.9 client ratingApproved RedTrack setup partnerUsually replies within minutes
Common problems

Outbrain problems I solve

Broken tracking and loose processes waste budget and lead to bad decisions. These are the issues I see most often, and how each one gets fixed.

Conversions not reaching Outbrain

How it's fixed

  • Pass ob_click_id through your tracker
  • Send S2S conversions back
  • Test a conversion

No publisher-level data

How it's fixed

  • Pass section and publisher macros
  • Store them in your tracker
  • Report by placement

Cost mismatch

How it's fixed

  • Sync or pass cost
  • Check the cost model
  • Compare daily totals

Double counting

How it's fixed

  • Choose one main conversion source
  • Remove duplicate pixels
  • Check reports

Platform and tracker numbers never match

How it's fixed

  • Align conversion definitions and windows
  • Pass the same IDs to both
  • Explain the gaps that are expected

Lead quality never reaches the platform

How it's fixed

  • Send qualified leads and sales back as events
  • Include value where possible
  • Optimize campaigns toward them
What's included

My Outbrain services

Pick what you need. Every quote is built around your setup and agreed before work starts.

Tracking URL

Macros for click ID, publisher and section.

Pixel or S2S

Pixel events or server conversions set up.

Tracker connection

Outbrain set as a source in your tracker.

Placement data

Publisher and section data you can act on.

Cost

Cost synced or passed where possible.

Testing

Real clicks and conversions checked.

Value-based conversions

Sale values sent so bidding favours revenue.

Ongoing monitoring

Checks that events keep firing as your site changes.

Integrations
  • RedTrack
  • Voluum
  • Binom
  • Keitaro
  • Everflow
How it works

How my Outbrain service works

Six clear steps, from first look to a setup you can scale on.

  1. Step 01Review your Outbrain trackingI check your current tags, events and conversion settings in Outbrain.
  2. Step 02Pick the right eventsWe agree which events matter most and what values to send.
  3. Step 03Set up browser trackingPixel or tags placed correctly, directly or through GTM.
  4. Step 04Add server-side eventsConversions sent from your server or tracker to recover lost data.
  5. Step 05Test and deduplicateEvents checked in Outbrain with deduplication confirmed.
  6. Step 06Hand over and monitorA short guide, and checks that tracking keeps working.

Ready to improve your Outbrain results?

Tell me what you're working on and I'll reply with a plan and a quote. I usually reply within minutes.

"Matthew is truly an expert in Voluum and Facebook. He set up all of my tracking and integrations over the weekend and worked around the clock."
fernandomncom, United States
FAQ

Outbrain questions

Which is better for Outbrain, pixel or S2S?

With a tracker, S2S is usually more reliable. The pixel works for simple direct setups.

Can I see which publishers convert?

Yes. With publisher and section IDs passed to your tracker, you can see what pays.

How long does setup take?

Usually one to two days, including tests.