Hi, I hope this is OK to post this here. I would like members opinions please if you have time. I have been working (messing arround with) a directory for a while now and although I have enjoyed playing with the features and code as a directory I am not sure if its viable. www.yaabiz.co.uk Should I start more local eg. UK or go the whole hog and go world wide ? Should I use a different script ? Should I give it up as a bad job ? I would appreciate your comments or if you think its any good try an ad. Thanks in advance David
I think directories are a thing of the past. They're obsolete. It was a good idea to start a directory two years ago, but now there are hundred of thousands around the internet, so there are little chances you'll make a profit from it. You'd better start something connected with visitors. I learned for myself: on the net, in real life, it doesn't matter, more people you attract to your product/service, the more money you will make. I mean it is better to start a social community, than a directory...
Thank you for your reply , as I thought really. Although I m not driven by the financial side of things that is I really dont mind if it dosent make any money it would be nice .however ,if it were to be used but it seems that vast sums of money would need to pumped into such a project such as this in the form of advertising in the media to bring it to the attention of the masses and as you say there is a lot of competition. David
If you enjoy listing sites and are not in it to make masses of money, I say go with what you enjoy doing. I agree with Mikey though, if I was to start again I would concentrate on a niche.
Based on your own comments. First asking if you're wasting your time. Second using the words messing - playing etc. I would say that you probably know the answer. The thing is if you're not committed then you are wasting your time. I hope this helps.
Are we talking about creating a directory or submitting to one? Because I was under the impression that directory submission was still a large part of SEO. Am I wrong?
Thank you for your thoughts. I have to say I have chopped and changed my ideas from general directory to niche (property) back to general again , from local back to international. I have just integrated an email facility that may attract other users. Maybe now I need to try some marketing. I do enjoy working on it so I wont abandon it unless something better comes along that demands my time. Kind regards David
It's rather hard to monetize directories. In another discussion swedal had pointed out that the directory editor should write / edit the descriptions and make them unique.
A niche directory is the only way We are starting to sell a few of ours to accomodate for the niches that will soon be added thx malcolm
I agree, niche directories are the way to go. I have a general directory that is about 4 years old. I am now make a little money ($$ to $$$ a month) from it. I pick up a new paid listing now and then and also have subscriptions for site renews. I have promoted the site in the past, now because of its age, I don't have to promote anymore. If I started to day I would buy directory that has a good domain name and that has been around a few years. Just my thoughts Ted
Wow! Never thought I'd see the day!! Next year should be very interesting if we see many niche directories popping up everywhere.
Hi, Thank you every one for your thoughts and views. I will now make my directory niche probably real estate or real estate based and see if I can generate some interest. Keep the comments coming. Kind regards David
Your going to need a general directory to list all of the niche directories Anyway what is it with all of this niche buzz word, seems a little bit like the yoyo fad and a new cool hip hop word to use, but who really understands what a niche is ? Is it a automotive directory, a health directory or other ? These seem more like just a category and would not a niche be more like automotive wheels or automotive bio fueled engines, health insurance etc etc ? maybe thats what people are referring to as a niche ? Agree with all though that it will be good to see the many new offerings That spring up, wishing success to all in 09.
It doesn’t really matter what kind of directory it is. Unless you’re willing to put a lot of time, money and effort into developing and marketing it then essentially it’s a waste of time.
Sure, that might be a good start. Niche' directories tend to do better overall when you concentrate on a smaller area rather than a broad one. I guess that depends. Is there something you do not like about the one you are using now? The fact that you are asking these questions and putting forth the effort is a pretty good indicator that you are committed to doing a good job. I'd say, take the advice you get here and from others and try to build on what you have now. You might want to limit you introduction of ads and PPC, etc., initially until you build a following and some more content, otherwise the site begins to look spammy. Good luck David!