What is the benefit of directory pages?

[ShockoeCommerce]

I recently started at a new job running ecommerce websites. We sell yoga equipment and on 2 of our sites we built directory pages for yoga studios to list their calendars and whatnot. They are pretty old and out of date, but my question is, is there any benefit to these types of directories? If they do, we need to look at refreshing them. But if not, then they need to go. One of them is here.

http://www.everythingyoga.com/studios.aspx

Like I said, it is out of date.

[ShockoeCommerce]

Yeah, when my predecessor did a redesign, they left off the links to that section. So it is actually an island right now with no direct link from the homepage.

[Toddfoster]

Hi Alex,

There are definitely benefits to creating your own directory for your industry or niche. Several reasons listed below:

1. Creates authority for your website as a resource for the industry

2. Allows backlinks from businesses offering services or products related to your website

3. Content and outreach opportunities from relevant brands

4. Allows you to create citations for any affiliate businesses you work with

5. Gives you multiple keyword-ranking opportunities since you are a directory as well as a supplier in the industry

The direct benefit to your website is not particularly on the SEO front (with a few minor exceptions) but this process does help with driving traffic to your website and can help with rankings if you use the strategy correctly.

I would say it is worth taking the time to refresh the pages and to make it more prominent on your site. From what I can see, the directory is not properly labelled or obvious to visitors to the site. If this is corrected, you stand to improve your UX, which will drive traffic and help with rankings.

Hope this helps and good luck with moving forward!

Rob