Funny. I could edit my post and use Aviva, it's just as good example - if not better, given the points you mentioned. It just happened that I'd been on DirJournal a few hours before I'd posted so it was in my mind!
The newest version of the SBD Directory Software came out last month. Although it's not new all together it's been out of the market with no development for three years - so there's some major changes. Most of them are directed in getting that review time down, by filtering bad listings into risk assessments - with easy mass delete options for the worst of them. It saves literally hours with my directories, and so far seems to catch out the bulk (and as any directory owner knows, it is a lot) of bad listings. Nothing beats human-editing, but it doesn't have to be so tedious.
Yea, that's why I said I guess it was personal opinion. But also, regarding the cats criteria you given, it would not qualify. Anywho, both great directories.
You know, its all about hard work these days. There doesn't seem to be much quick easy money for no work any more. There is nothing wrong with a directory- as long as it offers -TRUE VALUE- to people. Thant means real information, sincere reviews, and most of all, more information! If you have a real directory, not just a fly by night, get rich quick site, Goolge will respect it.
I know some people who are still doing it, thinking that it is a piece of cake and they'll make money, but there are so many directory sites that are just garbage. It takes a lot of time to invest in a decent directory and difficult to make a profit from.
You are right Dalediaz ... its all about hard work... if you really want to run a serious directory you have to work hard and do a continues link building and concentrate on the quality but not the quantity of the directory. Actually a serious directory earns you more by working full time for at least 8 months. You shouldn't look for instant income or to get rich over time. You need to wait and work hard.
It depends on what kind of directory they are. GG will penalised only scam directories. Let's build your site good and submit to high quality directory such as yahoo directory and your site will get good quality back link.