The Directoryz field guide

Categories and filters

Create browsing paths that reflect how visitors choose.

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Define clear boundaries between directory categories

Categories become difficult to maintain when their meanings overlap without a rule.

Categories usually organize the main browsing structure, while tags can describe cross-cutting attributes.

A long filter panel can make a directory feel complex before it becomes useful.

An empty result should explain how to recover.

Internal department language may not match the terms visitors use.

A category introduction should explain scope or selection criteria.

A directory can appear broad while leaving important categories nearly empty.

Merging categories should simplify navigation while preserving meaningful distinctions.

A split works when editors can apply the new distinction reliably.

Location browsing should reflect the geographic decisions visitors make.

Alphabetical browsing helps visitors who already know a name.

A filter can silently exclude good listings when the underlying field is mostly missing.

Category changes affect imports, submissions, links, and reporting.