I run a local newsy type website in the town where I live. It is really more of a lifestyle blog. These types of websites are tough sometimes. It is difficult to stand out in a sea of social media such as Facebook and Instagram. Our town also has a newspaper who publishes online.
I tried to keep my niche narrow to avoid being a comprehensive news website. One of the things I have thought about adding to the site is a business directory. It is something that I think can bring value, especially if the SEO value is strong enough.
So, I started looking at plugins for a business directory. One that I came across recently is WP GeoDirectory. The WP GeoDirectory looked really nice, so I thought I’d take it for a spin.
I installed it on a demo site I have and pulled back the curtains to peak at the inner workings of the plugin. Turns out, WP GeoDirectory is more like a platform in a similar way that MainWP is a platform to manage multiple WordPress installs.
Today I’m going to talk about some of the features of WP GeoDirectory that I like and think makes it worth considering for your directory website.
Customization
The GeoDirectory platform has built-in customizations through its administration menu. These are simple customizations regarding to display, etc., however, if you need more complex customizations, a few lines of code will help. They offer snippets for certain tasks that are regularly requested.
GeoDirectory also has access to themes. There is a free starter theme and child theme as well as premium themes. The platform also has theme compatibility packs for several of the most popular themes.
GeoDirectory pages are not customizable with page builders, however, you can create a custom home or front by using the GeoDirectory shortcode and widgets.
In the settings area, you will need to make sure you have an API Key for Google maps. You may also customize the permalinks. The default slug is “Places,” but you can change it to something different.
There are settings to configure the design, titles & meta information, your default location, custom fields (Place Settings), theme compatibility, import or export data, and diagnostic tools for troubleshooting.
Also, there is a place to authenticate your Google Analytics code. This will allow you to display analytics for the business owner. Additionally, in the settings, you can set your search settings.
Themes
WP GeoDirectory comes with pre-built themes. In fact, they have a starter theme called Directory Starter and Supreme Directory which is a child theme for the starter theme.
Additionally, the plugin comes with settings which helps your theme be compatible with GeoDirectory. Thirteen of today’s most popular themes are included. This comes already built-in to the plugin.
While GeoDirectory templates are not compatible with page builders, you can use a page builder on static pages and posts. This means that you can build a custom homepage with your favorite builder using the directory’s shortcodes and widgets.
Additionally, there are numerous add-ons you can purchase to extend the functionality of WP GeoDirectory.
Pricing Options
WP Directory provides products including the premium themes as well as add-ons. Each item can be purchased one by one or you can purchase one of the membership plans.
Of course, membership plans include all of the paid products making it a better deal if you need to use more than one or two add-ons. Creating an account at the WP GeoDirectory website is free.
Observations
WP GeoDirectory may be one of the most robust directories I’ve ever seen. If you are looking to do a simple directory on your website, it may be more than you need. However, if you are going to jump in with both feet trying to create a business, it is worth a strong consideration.
I like the strong geographic nature of the directory. With an API from Google, you can take full advantage of Google Maps in your listings and even your search page.
The add-ons include some nifty features such as a pricing manager, custom post types, a location manager, advanced search, a claim listings feature, and so much more.
I like the fact that users can create reviews for each listing. You can even set up analytics for business owners for this listing.
This plugin has the ability to be user-friendly for business. If users create an account, they can leave reviews, mark listings as favorites, as well as create listings.
As I said before, it could be more than you need for your site depending on the goal of your directory. There is a bit of a learning curve, but the company has provided sufficient documentation.
Tiny Screen Labs have created two plugins for GeoDirectory. One is called GeoDeals for GeoDirectory that includes a deal scheduler to the Special Offers custom field. The other plugin is a connector to a mobile app you can have published by Tiny Screen Labs helping to complete your directory experience.
Have you tried installing a directory on a website? What plugin did you use?
