Eliott Dupuy

The 6 best plugins to create a directory on WordPress

Without even realizing it, we often use directories when searching on the internet. Perhaps you occasionally look for restaurants in specific locations with Yelp. Or maybe you have already used platforms that connect professionals and individuals like Angie's List. Know that most of these sites use plugins to create directories.

Other uses of directories

Directories are not only used for searching for restaurants or new collaborations. Some companies also use them to provide a list of their employees. Law firms, for example, install directories on their website to allow internet users access to a list of lawyers. Real estate companies, on the other hand, present a directory where one can find various real estate agents, properties, etc. Online stores are also not left behind. They gather the products they sell on a page dedicated to this purpose.

In short, directories are applications designed to perform a specific task: data grouping. So, if your website does not yet have a directory when it should, it is high time to research the best plugins to create a directory on WordPress. I will propose some to youseveral, but the final decision is yours alone.

The role of plugins for creating directories on WordPress

The plug-ins differ from each other by their role

  • Payment option

  • local search with integrated map;

  • Customizable form field;

  • Adding and adjusting the directory list

  • way to evaluate companies;

  • media support;

  • Unfortunately, I cannot provide a translation without the actual text that needs to be translated. Please provide the specific content that you would like me to translate into English.

The choice must therefore be made according to the activity of the company. However, there are plugins that include all these features at the same time.

The best plugins to create a directory on WordPress in 2019

1. GeoDirectory

GeoDirectory presents a unique interface. The most important thing is that it is easy to use. Its name also says a lot about it: it has the localization functionality; Google Maps is integrated into it. So, if you are conducting searches with GeoDirectory, the results closest to your location will be displayed first. Next to each result, a Google Maps map is available. In short, Google closely collaborates with this tool. Follow-up can even be done through it Google Analytics.

GeoDirectory is particularly suitable for multi-site projects, whether the sites belong to you or are designed for your clients. But even if you don't have a site yet where you will install a directory, you can still use this plugin. In fact, creating a directory from scratch is possible, especially since it offers you the possibility several themes.

All of this is accessible for free. However, it still offers some paid features, such as: advanced search, events, paid listings, reviews, claims.

2. Advanced Classifieds & Directory Pro

The possibilities offered by plugins to create a directory on WordPress The possibilities are endless. Take the case of Advanced Classifieds & Directory Pro. Thanks to it, developers have no trouble integrating a directory (movie, restaurant, real estate portal, etc.) into a website.

Regarding users, they will be able to conduct an advanced search: a filter of results according to categories, locations, keywords... Also PayPal, Stripe and Woocommerce integrates perfectly with this plugin. Fortunately, it is available for free! However, upgrading to a premium account is recommended for those who want even more features.

3. Business Directory Plugin

Now, let's talk about the plug-in to create a directory on WordPress 2019 "all-in-one": Business Directory PluginIts basic features are: the ability to support media, customization of form fields, and online payment. If you think this is not enough, you can always purchase additional add-ons (Google Maps, PayPal, Reviews, Stripe, etc.). However, try not to spend a lot of money. I strongly recommend opting for the packages.

Furthermore, it is perfectly suited for professional purposes. The level module feature it has proves this, in other words: recurring sales. A company that pays a subscription will certainly not receive the same benefits as another that uses your services for free. For example, one that opts for the paid offer will be able to publish ads with an unlimited number of characters, images, maps..., unlike one that chooses the free offer.

4. Toolset Directory

With Toolset DirectoryAs an expert SEO, you do not need to code anything. However, this does not mean that you will have a simple directory. On the contrary, it includes the essentials: advanced search, maps, front-end form, email notifications, payments, etc.

Created by WPML, this Toolset Directory allows you to design a multilingual directory. Then, for the management of 3 different sites, it asks for $149. As a bonus, you will have the opportunity to use these 3 other tools with Toolset Directory: Elementor, Woocommerce and Yoast SEO.

5. LDD Directory Lite

The installation of LDD Directory Lite On your website only takes a few seconds; simply paste the code previously generated for the directory to automatically appear on the page of your choice. Other advantages are also present: firstly, the plug-in is free, with variousadditional featuresdisponibles sous paiement ; de deux, tous les additional featuressont abordables (entre 10 à 20$) ; enfin, un design moderne et intuitif est à votre disposition. Pour conclure, si vous êtes en quête d’un plug-in pour créer un annuaire sous WordPress simple d’utilisation, celui-ci vous convient à merveille !

6. Directories Pro

The Directories Pro stands out from others by its use of caches; this, in order to optimize the directory in question. Also, it is responsive. Regardless of the screen format used to access the directory, its design automatically adapts. As for the design itself, it is easily done thanks to the Drag and Drop functionality.

Directories Pro also opens several doors for you. Indeed, by using it, there is no need to limit yourself to a single directory on a single website. Managing multiple directories from a single account is possible! Not to mention other opportunities, such as cloning or migrating a directory to another site. As for users, they are not required to create an account to publish something on your directory. This can only attract more and more users.

Like some of the plugins to create a directory on WordPress that we have just seen, this one allows for advanced search. There is even autosuggestion during the search. Here are some more possibilities: integration of maps, payments, claims, import and export of .csv files, customizable email notifications.

You now know what lies behind these search directories that you use daily. Some of them establish a personalized code, while others make it easier by installing plugins to create a directory on WordPress. However, there are a whole range of them; I have only mentioned the most popular plugins. Now, it's up to you to see what suits your directory creation project the best!