From Lauren:
Here is the current list of custom variables that we use. I've copied Joanne because she might be able to provide the code we developed for a number of the tech-side variables we track.
http://confluence.npr.org/display/AIR/Google+Analytics+Custom+Variables
For anything built outside of Seamus, custom variables 1-4 can be set by hand.
Notes
Var 2: Editorial counterparts should know their ID numbers. Comma-delineated list of topics, primary topic listed first and designated P.
Var 3: Declare the Program ID variable if the app is associated with a story for a particular program. Integer.
Localization: Probably can't get to this one right now because this variable is set based on a cookie in a widget that's not used on app pages.
Var 4: Organization: Value is 1 for NPR.
Var 5: Do not declare.
Var 6: Joanne!
Var 7: Joanne!
Var 8 and 9: Reserved; currently not in use. Will let you know when we get there.
Var 10: Joanne!
Var 11: Joanne!
We also fire an event on page load that tracks all of the various series, byline IDs, program IDs, etc. in a single string.
Event Category: IDs
Event Action: IDs
Event Label: Comma delineated list of all Seamus ID numbers that should get credit for the app/story, including programs, topics, blogs, series, bylines, and anything thing else with a Seamus ID number. Editorial contacts should be able to provide the correct list. Add the non-interaction parameter "true."