Open Directory Project: DMOZ: Frequently Asked Questions - How often should I submit to the directory?
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Since the website submissions are accepted by some editors on a first come first served basis, and by type of site by other editors, you wait. The waiting period can last anywhere from one week to six long agonizing months. Whatever you do, don't decide to resubmit your site. At best, your submission will be moved to the back of the line, where the waiting period starts all over again. At worst, your site may even be rejected for spamming.
Should I submit to several categories just to be sure of being in one category?
Resist the urge to resubmit your site to more than one category, as you could be rejected for spamming the directory. While the waiting period can seem like an eternity, you simply have to wait it out. Some categories have a huge backlog of submitted sites. Others lack editors to keep up with the volume of new sites. By having carefully selected your category, you are at least certain you don’t have to worry about being in the wrong one.
What are some possible reasons for rejecting my site?
Your site could be rejected for any number of reasons. The most common reason for delays and rejections is not being submitted to the correct category. Another possibility is that you submitted a site that is not eligible for directory inclusion. Badly designed sites, lack of original and unique content, and sites still under construction are other reasons for rejection. Spamming the directory editors with the same site on numerous occasions will almost certainly result in rejection.
How do I contact the editors?
Editors can be accessed directly through their Feedback link. Be sure you made an accurate record of the submission date and category when the site was submitted. They will ask for that information. They want to be sure you submitted to the proper category, and that you have given their volunteers sufficient time to look over your website.
How do I find out the current status of my submission?
The best idea is to ask a polite question on the DMOZ public forum, located at http://www.resource-zone.com. You don't have to be registered to read the forum, but you must register (free) to post a question. As always, be sure to read and follow the posting guidelines. Once again, you will be asked for the date of submission, category submitted to, and the category editor. While at the DMOZ forum, you can also ask some questions about their requirements and regulations. The editors will try to help you in every way they can. While they can’t specifically give you a date for your inclusion, they can let you know if you are in the proper category.
Can I change my site description or category?
To request an update, you must complete an “Update URL” form. Follow the rules and requirements carefully, as you would with any other submission. If you believe your site was included in the wrong category, you can send an email to one of the category editors, and explain your disagreement. Politely request a change of categories for your website, and provide good reasons for the change. Paying attention to the original description, and applying to the correct category in the first place, is the best technique. Changes to DMOZ listings happen very slowly.
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