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How do I set up source codes for Digital Ad Plans?

  • February 19, 2026
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Liz Ragland
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Introduction 

Proper source code setup is crucial for tracking the effectiveness of your digital advertising campaigns and measuring ROI. 

Step 1: Create a source code strategy 

  1. Develop a consistent naming convention for your digital ad source codes 

  1. Consider including elements like: 

  1. Platform identifier (FB for Facebook, GA for Google Ads) 

  1. Campaign name or abbreviation 

  1. Date or quarter 

  1. Ad type or creative version 

  1. Example: GA_SPRING23_ACQUISITION 

Step 2: Add the source code to your Digital Ad Plan 

  1. In the audience definition step of your plan, enter your unique source code 

  1. Ensure this code is not being used for any other outreach efforts 

  1. For acquisition campaigns, note that this will become the Origin Source Code for new contacts 

Step 3: Implement the source code in your ads 

  1. Add your source code as a URL parameter in all links from your ads 

  1. Example: yourdomain.org/donate?source=GA_SPRING23_ACQUISITION 

  1. Verify that your landing pages are configured to capture and pass this parameter 

Step 4: Test your source code tracking 

  1. Before launching your full campaign, create a test ad with your source code 

  1. Click through and make a test donation 

  1. Verify that the contribution is properly associated with your Digital Ad Plan 

  1. Check that new contacts have the correct Origin Source Code 

What else do you need help with? 

Understanding Digital Ad Plans How do I track ROI from my Digital Ad Plans?  How do I create a Digital Ad Plan?