I'm making a directory. Does anyone have any advice? I have heard that you need a script to build a directory. Is this true? Any advice is much appreciated. I really don't know much about making one.
This article may help - keep in mind that most here will keep any really good or unique ideas to themselves.
Thank you, I will read it. I'm just really looking for the fundamentals, analogous to the building blocks and foundations of the structure.
One important thing in your directory script or development: Make sure that you are openly showing to your visitors the available submission types and last updates, even though you require register. Choose a directory script that doesn't lack of this. Also, think in a original category tree, and try to offer something different. Nice article =)
A directory is run by dynamic scripts like php, asp,etc. Of course then you have to buy a directory script. But there are some free directory script like phpld v2.1, it's good.
Is the dynamic part used for the search facility? If the entire directory is dynamic isn't that bad for seo?
Yep, the very fact that you're asking what to do, how to do this, is proof that you really shouldn't be attempting this. It's a very difficult web option to get right, never mind promoting it and making it successful. Also general directories aren't used by searchers - the few visitors you'll get is from other webmasters out for the next freebie and nothing more. The webmaster traffic you'll get won't even scratch the surface, for you to get anywhere with it. It's doubtful you have the experience to make one work or the great idea that everyone will jump onto, nor the ability to generate the sales needed. Advertisers will not buy into this as they've seen it all before. Best advice I can give is get a real job, go to college, then if you see no other work alternative do you attempt this. Even then, you need so much knowledge to make this work and bags of money you can throw at advertising, which you haven't got have you. Get an Education first.
I disagree. If nobody asked questions, or tried new things, where would we be? And creating a directory isn't that difficult, however I think EK is referring to building a successful and strong directory. If you've never used a script before, neither had I until I built my first directory. What I did was buy the latest version of phpld, as that's what came up when I searched, then I found this link http://chris.instantspot.com/blog/Tutorials it's a bit dated but still covers the basics. Then I learnt some things and made some mistakes. Good Luck
Yes, is there any other type...... To make good money, seogoat, needs to do this professionally and in a business-like way, and a $25 script is too restrictive. Even if further web work is added for improvements, it's going to cost so much more than he thinks it will, and is the key factor everyone overlooks, and eventually pays dearly for. The idea is to drive traffic and get attention, which can't be done with a cheap script and a few links. If it looks cheap - it is cheap, and will get ignored as a serious resource, which I imagine is the way he wants to go here?
seogoat, your questions indicate that you have not done much homework on this idea of yours. I would strongly suggest you go through the forums here and elsewhere and consider creating a directory from a basis or knowledge rather than "gee, that sounds like a good idea". Directories require much time, even after launch. I love seeing excited new webmasters in this area as they can bring great new ideas. Without more knowledge than you have now, you will only end up frustrated and will most likely give up. As to your question...yes, you should use a script - coding by hand would be a nightmare.