If you're running a Ghost blog—especially on the Starter or basic Ghost (Pro) plan—you’re probably looking for smart ways to understand audience behavior without overspending. That’s where Ghostboard comes in: a simple, powerful analytics tool for Ghost blogs. But here’s the twist: if your plan doesn’t include API access, you can still use Ghostboard—via a manual sync.

In this post, you’ll learn:

• How to export data from Ghost
• How to upload it to Ghostboard manually
• The benefits of manual sync (no API needed = budget-friendly!)
• The drawbacks

Let’s dive in!

Exporting from Ghost

• Log into your Ghost Admin

• Navigate to Settings → Advanced → Import/Export

• Select the tab Export

• Click Export: Ghost will create a JSON file containing your posts, tags, images, and metadata.
• Download the file to your computer.

Manual Syncing into Ghostboard

Now, open your Ghostboard dashboard and look for a section like Sync.

• Drag and drop your Ghost export JSON file or click the area.
• Let the system process the file—it may take a moment.

Ghostboard will parse your data, extract insights like top posts, reading time, referral sources, etc., and update your analytics.

Benefits of Manual Sync 🔥

1. API-free operation = cost savings
If you're on the cheapest Ghost Pro plan, you may lack access to Ghost’s API or webhook features. Manual sync removes that barrier—no need for technical hooks or developer time.

2. Full control & clarity
You choose when to update your metrics. Sync right after major updates, so your dashboard reflects the latest changes.

3. Zero surprises
You know exactly what data you're sending—no accidental endpoints, no unknown background jobs.

4. Works even in offline or limited-connectivity contexts
You can export locally and upload later, ideal for low-bandwidth situations.

Drawbacks of Manual Sync ⚠️

Let’s be honest—even the best workflows have downsides:

• Repeat task: Every time you publish a post or make changes, you need to repeat the export → upload process.
• Time cost: It’s manual, so it takes a few seconds—not ideal if you publish often.
• Human error risk: You might upload the wrong file or forget to sync.
• Limited real-time tracking: Unlike an API-based setup, you won’t get live data—just snapshots when you manually update.

But don’t worry—here are simple workarounds:

• Routine: Make it a habit—say, sync every Monday or after each publishing day.
• Reminders: Add a note in your editorial calendar, or Slack reminder, so you don’t forget.

Level up your Ghost blog 🚀

Start your free trial now and explore all Ghostboard features for free. No credit card is required.