Open Directory Project: DMOZ: Frequently Asked Questions - Who decides whether or not my site is included in DMOZ?
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DMOZ is an entirely volunteer edited directory. Each directory category has editors, as do most directory sub-categories. When a category is lacking an editor, submissions are considered by editors higher up the category scale. The inclusion of any website is based on a thorough review of a site and its content.
I heard some editors are not honest or fair. Is that true?
The overwhelming majority of DMOZ editors are dedicated people, working to provide the best possible Internet directory. While a few editors might be construed as having ulterior motives, they are in the tiniest minority. The main category editors work hard to make certain the site selections are fair and reasonable. As with any human activity, however, some problem individuals will slip through the cracks. Unfair and self serving editors are corrected in their techniques -- or are removed entirely.
How do I decide on the proper submission category?
The first step to doing a listing is to check the various directory categories, and find the appropriate one for your site. As mentioned above, there are a lot of categories, and sub-categories, and sub-sub- categories. Be very thorough here, because submitting your site to the wrong category can result in very long waits, and possibly even rejection. Don’t be afraid to spend a little time searching through the various options. You must submit to the correct category for your site. One way to ensure you are in the right one is to search through it. If you don’t see any similar sites to yours, it’s time to check out another category.
How do I write a site description?
A site description should be written as objectively as possible. The best technique for writing a successful description is to write about the site as a visitor would view it. An honest and objective description is most likely to be accepted, and not changed by an editor. It’s also thought that an objective description, free of blatant marketing and keyword stuffing, will help a site to become indexed faster.
How long do I have to wait for inclusion in the directory?
Inclusion time can vary from as little as a few days in some heavily edited categories to as long as a year or more. In general, however, the average length of time for a submission to be approved is about two months.
If I am accepted or rejected, will I hear from the editors?
The editors do not notify website owners as to whether the site was accepted or rejected. The reason for this apparent omission is to discourage spammers from submitting the same sites over and over again.
Next: How often should I submit to the directory? >>
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