Changing an existing site into a directory

I was wondering what everyone thought about changing an existing site into a directoy? Would it be a dumb idea to take a site that has, for example, a PR of 4 that isn't making much money and change it over to a directory.

What are the benefits of doing this if any?

What are the downfalls of doing this?

Thanks,

 

I was actually thinking about this myself...what i have done instead is kept the site and just added a new page...the directory..i hadn't really thought it would do very well, but in a months time i'm doing quite well i'd think for a new directory and it's finally starting to wake up google lol

as for the original site, i'm still in debates to keep it because it's not doing anything at all, but at the same time lol i worked so hard....

 

IMHO, it is deceiving.

I have seen a growing trend of people taking PR domains and putting directories on them with PR0 inner pages trying to make a QUICK BUCK.

Not to say that's what you are going for, just a general analysis of this situation.

 

Like NRLMedia said,it's a good way to earn some quick cash.
If you wanna develop it,I don't recommend you do it.
Saying it was a music site and people got to know about it,they saw a directory when they entered your site,they would fell frustrated/upset...

 

Thanks for the input. Very good points.

 

You can do it just make sure you build up the new sites name as a directory well, i mean promote its new purpose well and make sure you dont mislead people to your site thinking its about X thing and its actually a general web directory.

 

IMO, if your domain name is suitable for a directory, you can do it.

 

I would keep the original site especially if it's established, to keep the rating...etc.

In addition, I'd start a new directory.

In the long term, you'll end up with a web site + a directory.

 

But then, there is an exception for that if you want to arrange your links in your site and that is some good way in doing it. Its supposed to be free and reciprocated only. Not a way to generate CASH.

Right Richie ?

 

It may be a better idea to just add a directory to the site in a different folder. You could make the directory a niche based on whatever your current site is about. I think that would be more understanding to people then just turning the whole site into a directory.

 

With what's bolded up top, I will answer; no, no problem in doing so...BUT.... expect to make LESS money once you do.

 

That sounds reasonable to me.

 

Only way to do it right, 100% correct.

 

Well.. go for it if you want.. nothing to lose if the site is useless..

 

I think it depends on how much time you spend on maintaining your site, if it worth it, and if it's not, it might not be a bad idea to turn it into a niche directory.

 

If you can turn it into a long term quality directory, why not?
However, directory is not that easy...

 

I did that a few months ago to see if I could "cheat the system". Guess what? I didn't fool anybody. I lost the PR so fast that I didnt see it coming...wont be doing it again...

 

Hello,

Nice looking site. I submitted my directory. Can I suggest adding a new category: Directories of Directories.

Kempton

 

Yes that's a possibility, plus the earnings could drop with a directory.

Also, with the existing site, as you work on it more & with time, it should earn you more money.