Not many website owners know what a directory is, despite how useful they can be. Directories have the same basic function regardless of the domain in which they are used. They are simple databases that people can use to look up information, often presented in alphabetical order and filtered by category or location.In most cases, you can use a simple directory search bar or an interactive map to find exactly what you are looking for.
Accessing all the relevant information about a business, a website, or a person can be done from one single place – online directories. You can gather information about the name, address, and contact details grouped together in a directory. For instance, if you are looking for a good realtor, you can simply access a real estate listing directory. The same applies to other things – shops, restaurants, websites, and so on.
For people who are using WordPress, listing and then locating a service becomes easier. Using a WordPress directory plugin enables you to integrate a featured directory to your own website without much effort. It’s efficient for websites in any industry. For example, a law company’s website can feature a directory where all their lawyers are listed, along with their contact details and other relevant information.
A real estate company’s website should contain a directory where information about all agents is provided. The same goes for retail chains or other business websites that have to guide their visitors to find more information related to the services they provide. If you find yourself in the same situation and you are willing to use a WordPress directory plugin for your own site, keep reading more about this topic in this article created by our team at wpDataTables and learn how to choose the best one.
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Why is it important to use a WordPress directory plugin?
The main reason why people choose WordPress as their Content Management System is its versatility. The fact that you can add any plugin that you like to your site is convenient and gives you the chance to expand the website in all possible ways. You should use a WordPress directory plugin mainly because it is convenient.
You don’t need to know anything about programming. You won’t need to write any lines of code with WordPress directory plugins and you will still get the features that you want to add to your site. A WordPress plugin directory can be added to any website, regardless of its niche.
What features should you consider for a WordPress directory plugin?
Not every WordPress directory plugin is the same. Directories can be used for all sorts of purposes, so you have to make sure that the WordPress directory plugin that you want to use has all the features that your website requires. Some of the most popular features include:
- If you want to charge for listing services, make sure that the plugin comes with an integrated payment system
- Choose a geolocation plugin if you want to include location-based searches and interactive maps
- Look for a plugin that has fully customizable form fields
- The directory listings should be easy to add and adjust
- Customers should be able to add reviews and ratings
- A WordPress directory plugin must be equipped with back-end tools and front-end submission options
- The plugin should be easy to customize using shortcodes
- Look for media support if you want to share the directory on multiple platforms
Even so, the features are not limited to those listed above, and you should look for the best WordPress directory plugin for your website in particular. Continue reading if you are interested in finding out more about the most popular WordPress directory plugins.
A list of the best plugins for your WordPress directory
Formidable Directory
Easily build online directory listings pages and websites with Formidable Forms. Create local, private, public, free, and paid listings – you decide. Why wait any longer? It’s time to make your dream directory website a reality.
With their drag and drop form builder and advanced Views feature, you can build your WordPress business directory with ease. Streamline the creation of all the forms and Views needed for full-featured listings. All you have to do is choose a page name and customize your forms. They automatically create the listing pages based on directory submissions.
Directories Pro
This WordPress directory plugin is feature-packed. You can use it for any sort of website, as it is versatile and easy to comprehend. It comes with a beautiful frontend design that won’t raise any difficulties during usage, the admin tools are user-friendly, and the features are practical.
Directories Pro can easily be integrated with multiple themes. The plugin has a great style that won’t require changes, as it fits the design of most WordPress websites.
Business Directory Plugin
Business Directory Plugin is a freemium plugin, with limited functionality for non-paying users. It has form fields that are ready to use immediately after installing it, the listing times can be modified the way you want, the payment methods are diverse, and the plugin also features image support.
What’s great about Business Directory Plugin is that you can import and export your listings using CSV files. If you believe that the free features of this plugin are not enough, you can always improve it by purchasing upgrades. It is perfect for a multilingual site, as you can use WPML to switch between multiple languages.
GeoDirectory
The GeoDirectory plugin is mostly dedicated to business websites, but it can also be used for other purposes as well. You can generate global business directories or you can segment the directories into smaller locations (countries, cities, neighborhoods).
If you have a multi-site, this is the WordPress directory plugin you should use. You can build an entire network of plugins that can be migrated from one site to another or installed on more than one website. The plugin comes in a free version, with paid add-ons for more advanced functionalities like event planning, multilocation, payment options, and reviews.
Connections Business Directory
Another powerful WordPress directory plugin is Connections. It is a free plugin that can be extended using paid add-ons. Setting up a business directory can be done in minutes with Connections. It has many pre-set fields that are perfect for all sorts of directories. You can also modify the privacy settings of each field. The admin can customize each field according to the requirements of the site. Moreover, the plugin is helpful for SEO purposes.
Sabai Directory Plugin
Sabai Directory is a paid plugin that is extremely simple to use and has a pre-configured module that has all the features a person would need to set things up. With this WordPress directory plugin, you can create location-based directories and decide for yourself how you want your listings to appear on the site. You can use the WordPress extensions that it comes with in order to expand the capabilities of your directory.
Gravity Forms and GravityView
If you are a beginner and you would like to get the best out of a WordPress directory plugin, Gravity Forms is for you. The plugin also has other capabilities that don’t have anything to do with directories such as letting users submit their own content and conducting surveys on your site.
The directory feature is an add-on plugin that you can add to your existent Gravity Form WordPress extension. You can create custom forms to let users add more information to the directory. Configuring the look of the directory has never been easier either. The plugin can be controlled using shortcodes, meaning that your options are unlimited. The plugin also has a built-in search option.
Advanced Classifieds & Directory Pro
This is a WordPress business directory plugin with user-friendly features. It is a very responsive plugin that offers tools that are perfect for businesses of any size. You can track your payment history and integrate the directory with platforms such as PayPal or WooCommerce. The plugin supports offline payments, a feature that not many WordPress directory plugins have.
Moreover, the plugin has a built-in notification system that lets merchants know when their listings are about to be taken off the directory. They will receive confirmation regarding their payments and more.
LDD Directory Lite
LDD Directory Lite can be added to your site using shortcodes. You can add the directory to a page or even a post on your WordPress website. The directory will be automatically generated once you copy and paste the shortcode where you want the directory to appear. This is probably the most convenient WordPress directory plugin for those who need quick results.
The customization options are quite numerous as well. You can edit the way the directory looks to match your website’s theme,you can pay for add-ons that expand the applicability of the plugin, and more. You can integrate the plugin with Google Maps or the most popular social media platforms.
Simple Directory
This WordPress directory plugin is great for both business and personal purposes. It has three directory templates that you can start with. In order to use this extension, you need to install Piklist first. The features are much more diverse than in the case of a regular directory plugin. You can add widgets that give users the opportunity to filter their search results and more. The results page is highly customizable.
Web 2.0 Directory Plugin
The Web 2.0 plugin is convenient if you would like to publish classified ads on your site. It is great for websites that have to display a lot of information in a responsive manner such as yellow pages or real estate. Users can also filter their searches based on location. It is SEO-friendly and easy to customize.
Instead of investing a lot of time and effort into creating a directory using the code, choose one of the WordPress directory plugins listed here and you will be more than happy with the results. They are extremely handy and don’t require any specific knowledge to work with. Give them a try and see how the directory listing process goes.
FAQ on WordPress Directory Plugins
What exactly is a WordPress Directory Plugin?
Well, think of it as a tool to transform your plain ol’ WordPress site into a dynamic listing platform. It lets you create and manage business directories, local listings, and so much more.
Whether you’re looking to showcase local businesses or perhaps, create a niche-specific directory, these plugins got your back. Essentially, they’re super-charged add-ons that give your website those cool directory features.
Why would I even need one?
Alright, imagine you’ve got this cool idea to showcase all the local coffee shops in your town. A directory plugin helps you make that dream a reality.
It lets your visitors search, filter, and find the best spots. They can even leave reviews. So, if you’re aiming to create a platform where listings take the center stage, these plugins are your magic wand. They’re not just for business directories, they’re for anything list-worthy.
How hard is it to set one of these up?
Honestly? Not that hard. With WordPress’s intuitive interface and the user-friendly nature of most directory plugins, you’re looking at a pretty smooth sailing.
Sure, there’s a learning curve, especially if you’re going for advanced features like custom fields or map integration. But hey, with a bit of patience and some trial and error, you’ll get the hang of it. And if you ever feel stuck, there’s always a community to help.
Do these plugins come free or are they gonna cost me?
Well, just like most things in life, you get what you pay for. There are free directory plugins that do a decent job, but if you’re looking for the full array of features and top-notch support, you might want to consider shelling out some cash for the premium ones.
But, fear not! Many of these premium options offer trial versions, so you can take them for a spin before diving into your wallet.
Can I customize how my directory looks?
Absolutely! You’re not stuck with a cookie-cutter design. Most of these plugins play nicely with WordPress themes, and some even come with their own set of templates.
So, whether you’ve got an eye for design or you’re more of a grab-and-go person, there’s room for creativity. Plus, with shortcodes and widgets, you can place directory elements just about anywhere.
Is there any way to make money with these plugins?
You bet! Many directory plugins offer features like premium listings, membership packages, and ad spots. So, if you play your cards right, your directory site can become a nice little source of passive income.
And if you integrate it with something like WooCommerce, the sky’s the limit. Just remember, always offer value to your visitors, and they’ll keep coming back for more.
Are these plugins SEO-friendly?
Most definitely. A well-coded directory plugin knows the importance of SEO-friendly directories.
They typically come with built-in SEO features, ensuring that your listings rank higher on search engines. Combine that with a solid SEO plugin, sprinkle in some high-quality content, and you’ve got yourself a winning combo.
What if I want to have multiple directories on my site?
Multi-directory? No problem! Many plugins out there let you run multiple directories on a single site. So if you’ve got a broad vision – like a directory for coffee shops and another for bookstores – you’re covered. Just ensure your chosen plugin supports this feature, and you’re good to go.
How do users submit their own listings?
Ah, the beauty of front-end submissions! Most directory plugins come equipped with a system that lets your visitors submit their own listings. Some offer free submissions, while others let you charge for the privilege. It’s a great way to crowdsource content and keep your directory fresh and up-to-date.
Do these plugins support reviews and ratings?
Oh, for sure! What’s a directory without some good ol’ user feedback? Most directory plugins come with a built-in review and rating system. Users can leave their two cents, rate businesses or services, and help others make informed decisions. It adds a layer of trust and authenticity to your directory.
If you enjoyed reading this article on WordPress directory plugins, you should check out this one about WordPress chat plugin options.
We also wrote about a few related subjects like Hello Bar for WordPress, WordPress client portal plugins, store locator WordPress plugins, WordPress review plugin and WordPress contact form options.
