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Difference between Macro and Parameters

At a Glance: This article is detailed knowledge about Macro and parameters and also the difference and different use of both terms in Trackier.

Updated this week

Overview

A clear understanding of parameters and macros is fundamental to ensuring accurate conversion tracking within the Trackier platform. These components enable structured data exchange between publishers, advertisers, and Trackier by defining how information is passed and received during click and conversion events.

Proper implementation of parameters and macros ensures correct attribution, seamless tracking, and reliable reporting across campaigns.

What Are Parameters?

Parameters are used to collect or receive information.

They act as placeholders in a URL where specific data will be stored once it is passed. Parameters are static identifiers that define what type of information is expected.

Example of parameters:

  • p1

  • Source

  • pub_id

A parameter itself does not contain the value. It only defines where the value should be received.


What Are Macros?

Macros are used to pass dynamic information.

They automatically replace themselves with actual values at the time of a click or conversion. Macros are dynamic and system-generated.

Examples of macros:

  • {click_id}

  • {source}

  • {publisher_id}

When a tracking link or postback fires, these macros are replaced with real data.


Difference Between Macros and Parameters

Parameter

Macro

Used to receive information

Used to pass information

Static identifier in URL

Dynamic value placeholder

Defined by receiver

Used by sender

Example: p1=

Example: {click_id}

In simple terms, parameters are the receiving fields, and macros are the values that fill those fields.


Practical Example

Consider the following URL:

https://advertisername.com?gaid={gaid}&p1={click_id}

In this example:

  • gaid and p1 are parameters.

  • {gaid} and {click_id} are macros.

How it works:

  1. A user clicks on the tracking link.

  2. Trackier dynamically replaces {gaid} and {click_id} with actual values.

  3. The advertiser receives those values inside the defined parameters (gaid and p1).

This ensures accurate tracking and attribution.


Note: In Trackier, click_id the most important and mandatory information to track the conversions.


Use of Macros in Publisher Tracking

For publishers, macros are typically used in:

  • Tracking links

  • Postback URLs

When generating a tracking link, Trackier provides macros that dynamically capture and pass data during user interaction.

For macros and parameters that are required for publisher tracking links and postbacks, you can read the complete guide here.


Use of Macros in Advertiser Tracking

For advertisers, macros are used in:

  • Conversion tracking URLs

  • Server-to-server (S2S) postbacks

Advertisers must correctly implement parameters to receive the macro values sent from Trackier.

All the macros for advertiser tracking are available in this knowledge base article.


Where to Find Macros in the Trackier Panel

All available macros can be found:

  1. In the Campaign Details section.

  2. While creating or editing a campaign.

  3. By clicking on the “See More” option within the campaign setup.


This will display the complete list of supported macros available for implementation.


Conclusion

Macros and Parameters work together to ensure accurate tracking in Trackier.

  • Parameters define what data should be received.

  • Macros dynamically provide the data.

  • The click_id macro is essential for proper conversion tracking.

Correct implementation of both ensures seamless communication between publishers, advertisers, and the Trackier platform.


We're thrilled to have put together a top-notch team of qualified experts who are available to handle any of your concerns and respond to any inquiries you may have. You can contact us at any time by sending an email to Trackier's support or using the in-platform chat feature.

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