Thread: Starting a directory... any tips?

I decided to start a directory and i know i probably have very stupid few noob's questions but i hope someone will help me anyway.

1. which script is better?
i sound siteswift (or something like that?) -- free, and phpLD -- 25$-75$. I think phpld is slightly more popular and more useful? anyone has a good experience with any other script?

2. can i use the license on a several sites or is it like vB - each site requires a separate license?

3. another cliche question - is it profitable?
Let's say if I'd have a PR5 or PR4 directory, with free submission in exchange for reciprocal + paid listing for a small fee + slightly adsense supported. it is likely to bring anything? i am asking mainly because I'd purchase a domain (with PR) for it, and platform license, so from ur experience, will it cover the investment?

I'd appreciate any advice, thanks in advance!

1. Yeah phpld is the most popular and v 2.x is free.

2.if you are talking about the paid version of phpld,you'll have to get a separate license.

and you can check out this blog post:http://www.alivedirectory.com/blog/2...tory-launched/

I would say that, since this is your first directory, it would be better to stick with a well used and tested script. phpLD would be fine. Many thousands of copies of it in use already and for a long time.

If you want to put AdSense on your directory, that's OK. But you will probably make very little money from it. Mostly webmasters will be going to your directory and most webmasters are already trained to ignore AdSense ads. You can make some decent money with affiliate programs for other directories, paid-for-posting blog programs and other things that webmasters would be interested in.

And, you can also make money by selling some sitewide links.

Thanks for your replies guys, I settle with the phpLD, looks easy but... how to I add a template i wanted? i downloaded the template i like and... where to i upload it? there is no configuration through the admin panel... arrrrgg.. looks like a harsh business lol

If phpLD doesn't work, you should try site sift listings.

It confused me at first too Larelei. You just over write the files via FTP. There is no theme selection in the free version.

Most themes come with a directory structure in place.. Just upload it with that structure.

Before you start over writing files, make sure to back up your main structure first. I tried over writing mine on the first go around, and then had to reupload everything when the code didn't work quite right. My site using phpLD is found at lumberjakk.com, using version 2, the free one.

My best advice? Stick with it, and keep it updated regularly and fresh!!! That is about it!