Merits of using a directory instead of a
search engine include:
Quick access to a manageable number of professionally pre-selected high
quality resources
An easily understood reference subject system or basic classification for
searching, with clearly defined subjects
Universal search terms prevent typing and spelling errors, homonym/synonym
and singular/plural confusion
References to related search terms
Annotations and ratings by colleagues within the profession
Easy browsing within a specialty
Regularly checked links, which reduces the chance of missing links
No language barrier (information is provided in various languages)
Independent specialized referrals, which ensure a larger degree of
objectivity, as compared to information found via search engines and popular
directories
