My first interest with directory is about 12 years ago, when I visit a website called anipike.com. It has a collection of good websites of anime. Then I start make similar one with Perl script GT-Links 2.0. Why people like directory? Because it offer a collection of good websites that they like. But what I see now is so different. Many directory owners want to make money fast, forget that WHAT the visitor demand. Stop thinking of selling links. But think what you will OFFER to the visitor. You will end up rejecting so many websites. If you go niche reviewing them is not so hard and relative fast. First see the title, then check the website whenever they have a relevant content. If you always think how to make money with your directory by selling links, you will earn a lof of stress. Go niche, and get a good collection of websites, you will be happy with the result.
I agree that focusing on money first is a common mistake, not just in directories, nothing wrong with the expectation and aim of money from it, but yeah the focus needs to be on how it can be useful, attract users etc, not easy to do but should definately be part of the plan. My biggest mistake was copying what people did and said at first, was like being in a herd of sheep and installing mods for the sake of it because another new one had been released.
true.. directory sites is intended for listing valuable links not spam websites.. Directory web owners need to train themselve that it's not about making a business, but providing people with useful links and profits will follow next, automatically!
With as fast as the herd was moving, it was hard not to get caught up in the ensuing frenzy. It'a nice to see that some have separated from the herd and are migrating in a different direction.
the problem is most of the directory visitors are website owners now not actual visitors trying to find websites. They can do that fairly easily using search engines nowadays. That said, I do agree that many directory owners are just out there for a quick buck
In addition, directory website is like other usual websites. It should grow, don't stop with only web listing. Add some good articles. Grow the community with forum. In my view, you can see info vilesilencer, it is a very good example of directory. Haha.. good point. Thats why I stop with only having one general directory. Go niche is better. Easier to maintain and also easier to get real visitor.