Web directory
Definition
Organized, categorized listings of Web sites.
Information
The terms "Web directory" and "search engine" are often used interchangeably.
Web directories are organized Web site listings put together by human
reviewers, whereas search engine listings are put together by automated
systems and lack a navigable structure. Much of the confusion stems from
the various hybrid models that have developed over time, as search engines have incorporated directory features to assist with issues
such as categorization and site quality.
There are advantages and drawbacks to using a Web directory as opposed to a search engine. One vehicle may be better suited to certain types of searches than the other. Directories place an
emphasis on linking to site home pages and try to minimize deep linking.
This makes directories more useful for finding sites instead of individual
pages. Some directories attempt to solve this shortcoming by partnering
with a search engine for supplemental listings.
Synonyms
Web site directory
Related Terms
search engine, volunteer directory
Sites
Search Engine Watch : Directory Sizes
dmoz.org : Searching the Web : Directories
Yahoo : Search Engines and Directories
Articles
The Directory Listing Advantage
ClickZ (August 9, 2000)
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