A B2B directory serves as a specialized online resource, distinctly different from a search engine. While both present lists of links related to specific topics, their approach differs significantly. Search engines crawl the entire web to find B2B sites based on user-defined keywords. In contrast, B2B directories contain a curated collection of links, typically submitted by site owners, meticulously categorized by topic. These listings usually represent entire websites, not specific subpages, with a limited number of entries per site.
Directories vary considerably in size and scope. Some focus on niche topics or specific geographic regions, while others are expansive, such as the Yahoo! Directory and the Open Directory Project (ODP), a vast, open-source resource used by numerous search engines and directories.
The business model of these directories also varies. Some offer free listings, while others charge a one-time or recurring fee. Some even allow businesses to bid for premium placement within the directory. Certain directories, especially free ones, may impose restrictions on listings, such as disallowing search engines from following the provided links. Additionally, some may require a reciprocal link back to the directory on every page included in the listing.
Think of B2B directories as a specialized phone book for the internet. Users simply need to know the directory’s web address and the type of business they seek to locate relevant partners and resources online.