This is my first attempt to define what makes a good directory. So as a first attempt I think I am going to just list a series of factors that should not be overlooked.

1. Published editorial/submission guidelines.
2. Editors that stick to these published guidelines (aka editorial integrity).
3. Unique category structure (clearly if your a geographic directory thats near impossible)
4. Quality sites in the directory (whether submitted by site owners or included by an editor)*
5. Quality unique descriptions that help a visitor to understand what the site offers without having to click on the link.

Ok these five seem to me to me the most important. There are more, but I believe that by complying with these five indicators, the directory is firmly on the road to achieving quality status.

I can hear the clamour of voices claiming that I have forgotten the 3 most important factors, namely:

1. SEO friendly back-link to the included site
2. Google PR
3. Unique design But these are not mission critical for any directory.

SHOCK HORROR, this guy is talking cr@p, I can hear most of you thinking. No its not cr@p, its just I am trying to focus on the end user. The end user is not the owner of the web site that is included in your directory. The end user is the visitor that is looking for a helping hand in finding information and has come across your directory.

I do believe that a unique design helps set the directory apart visually from others, but the key concept is content. Quality content and not that’s its pretty. Quality content attracts organic back links. Quality content is good for the user, and that visitor will come back to your directory.

So for the moment that’s what I think. I suppose those with more experience than I will be able to show me the error of my ways!

*Its hard to define a quality site, but for the moment I would say a site with unique authoritative content would pass this filter.

Share This