You want to build a directory? Cool. But here's the thing - there are basically three different types, and picking the wrong software will make your life hell.

I have been thinking about this as part of the ideation of new projects. I've coached a few people on getting started. So this is my current thinking on it.

Let me break this down for you.

1. Affiliate Directories

These are your typical "best AI tools" or "top marketing software" sites. You know the ones. List a bunch of products, slap some affiliate links on them, hope people click and buy stuff.

Of course, you can add value. But you do want to get commissions.

Examples? AI tool directories are everywhere right now. Design resource sites. SaaS comparison pages. Basically anything where you're showcasing products and getting paid when someone signs up.

Best software for this: Unicorn Platform or Directify

Why? Because they're actually built for this. Unicorn Platform makes everything look clean and modern without you having to mess around with design. Directify is more specialized for directories specifically. It's my top choice for simplicity. Both handle affiliate links without being weird about it.

Don't use WordPress with some random directory plugin. Just don't.

2. Local Directories

This is the "find a plumber in your city" type of directory. Geographic stuff.

Perfect example: You build a directory for Austin, Texas. List all the restaurants, dentists, plumbers, whatever. People search by location, read reviews, get phone numbers. Simple concept, but execution matters.

Best software: GeoDirectory

This one's a no-brainer. GeoDirectory is literally made for location-based stuff. Maps work properly. Search filters actually make sense. Local SEO features are built in, not bolted on later.

I've seen people try to build local directories with general tools. It always looks janky.

I don't love Wordpress, but this is a very robust option. It does come with the burden of WordPress.

3. Member Directories

Think professional listings. Financial advisors, real estate agents, freelancers, whatever. The goal is connecting people with qualified professionals.

These are $$$ in my opinion.

Like, someone needs a financial advisor in their area. They find your directory, browse profiles, contact someone. The advisors pay you for the lead or for being listed.

Best software: Brilliant Directories

This software gets it. Member profiles that don't suck. Subscription management that works. Networking features that people actually use. It's built specifically for professional directories, not adapted from something else.

Very robust. Looks like WordPress. But without Wordpress.

All options have been planned. Good support. I love Brilliant Directories for this type of directory.

Which One Should You Pick?

Dunno. Pick whichever one you have

a) specialize knowledge about

b) actual interest in the topic

Affiliate directories if you understand affiliate marketing and have a specific niche in mind. The money can be good, but you need traffic.

Local directories if you know a geographic area well and can hustle to get local businesses signed up. Harder to scale, but can be really profitable in the right market.

Member directories if you're targeting professionals and don't mind the ongoing community management. These take more work but can build real value over time.

Real Talk About Building Directories

Here's what nobody tells you: Quality beats quantity every single time. 50 active, engaged listings crush 500 dead ones.

You need a clear reason for people to use your directory. "It exists" isn't enough.

These things don't run themselves.

SEO matters for all of them, but local directories especially need location-based optimization or they're invisible.

Bottom Line

The directory game isn't dead. It's just full of half-assed attempts using the wrong tools.

Pick your type based on what you actually know and can commit to. Use the right software from day one. Focus on making something people genuinely want to use.

Anyhow, I hope some of this insight will help you better ideate your next directory.

I have a free guide on ideating your directory that might be helpful to plan your next directory project.