Adobe Analytics WebSDK implementation

If you're working with Adobe Web SDK and trying to send data from your XDM schema to Adobe Analytics (AA), there are a few different paths you can take — each with its pros, cons, and ideal use cases.

Let’s break down the three primary methods you can use to map XDM fields to AA variables effectively:

1. Use the Adobe Analytics ExperienceEvent Field Group (Automatic Mapping)
2. Use Data Prep in AEP DataStreams
3. Use AA Processing Rules

1. Leverage the Adobe Analytics ExperienceEvent Field Group (Automatic Mapping)

How it works:
The Adobe Analytics ExperienceEvent field group in Adobe Experience Platform (AEP) includes predefined mappings that automatically route your XDM fields to the correct Adobe Analytics variables. When you implement Web SDK and use this field group, the mapping is handled behind the scenes — no extra setup required.

✅ Why this is great:

• Zero manual configuration needed

• Keeps AEP and AA data tightly aligned and consistent

⚠️ What to watch for:

• Not suitable if you need custom or advanced mappings

• You’re limited to what’s already defined in the field group

Best for: Quick-start implementations and teams prioritizing simplicity and consistency.

2. Use Data Prep in AEP Datastreams for Custom Mappings

How it works:
Data Prep is a powerful feature in AEP Datastreams that lets you manipulate incoming XDM data before it’s sent to Adobe Analytics. With it, you can:

• Rename fields

• Combine or split values

• Apply conditional logic for dynamic mappings

✅ Why this is great:

• Super flexible for custom and complex transformations

• Lets you reshape data to match exactly what AA expects

⚠️ What to watch for:

• Requires learning the Data Prep syntax

• Errors aren’t always obvious — especially if there’s a mistake in your variable paths

Best for: Advanced users and enterprise use cases with custom data structures.

3. Map XDM to AA Using Processing Rules

How it works:
If your XDM data is sent as context variables (e.g., c.context.xdm.*) to Adobe Analytics, you can use Processing Rules within the Adobe Analytics UI to map those context variables to standard AA dimensions (like eVars, props, and events).

✅ Why this is great:

• Familiar interface for seasoned AA users

• Doesn’t require AEP or Datastream-level access

⚠️ What to watch for:

• Not ideal for complex logic or transformations

• Better suited for simpler mappings and last-mile adjustments

Best for: Teams already comfortable with AA Processing Rules or needing a lightweight mapping solution.

Final Thoughts

No matter your level of complexity or customization, Adobe Web SDK gives you flexibility in how you map your XDM data to Adobe Analytics. Whether you want the ease of automatic mapping, the power of custom transformations, or the control of Processing Rules — you’ve got options.

Pro tip: You can even mix and match these methods to fit your needs. Start simple, then scale as your implementation matures.

Resources :

• Set up Adobe Analytics with Adobe Experience Platform Web SDK

• XDM object variable mapping to Adobe Analytics