This article will discuss how you can evaluate Online Accommodation Directories in 5 simple steps:

1. User-friendliness
User-friendliness is a key factor for the long-term success of an online accommodation directory. Visitors will return time after time to the same directory if theyr search was quick and successful. Other than the genearl look & feel, there are 3 main criteria to look for. Firstly, as most visitors prefer to search by map, high quality, detailed interactive maps are an absolute must. Secondly, the search must be quick and efficient, meaning that after just a few clicks, visitors must be presented with a wide choice of accommodation options in their preferred location. Thirdly, the information about the establishments must be well structured, complete with images, rates, location and establishment reviews. And lastly, the booking process, whether online or through an enquiry form must be quick and easy, not asking for too much information or going through too many steps.

2. Search Engine Rankings
Online Accommodation Directories heavily rely on organic search. And while some directories constantly appear on the first page of major search engines for many locations and establishment types, most online accommodation directories fail to implement even the basics of Search Engine Optimization. Search the internet using your establishments keywords, if a directory appears on the first page for your keywords, you should consider to list your establishment on this directory. It is important to use a large variety of keywords and also to use keyphrases in other languages, especially if the directory is multi-lingual and you would like to attract international visitors.

3. Traffic
The ability for an online accommodation directory to attract a large enough amount of visitors to provide establishments with a steady flow of enquiries and bookings is crucial The overall traffic an online accommodation directory receives is a good indication for you to consider a subscription. Go to www.alexa.com and type in the name of the accommodation directory; if the traffic rank is at least below 500 000, you should consider to list your establishment on the directory, especially if as discussed in the previous paragraph, the directory appears on the first page of search engines for keywords relevant to your establishment, such as your establishments name, your location and accommodation type. Top online accommodation directories have a traffic rank below 100 000.  

4. Check what your competition is doing
Although this is not always a reliable way to measure the effectivity of an online accommodation directory, it often provides you with a good indication whether you should take out a subscription or not. If your competition is not listed, they either haven't heard about the directory or they have left it many years ago... Although it appears appealing to be the only establishment listed for your area, most visitors expect a large choice of properties and will leave a directory quickly if the choice is too small.

5. Trial Sign-up
Many accommodation directories allow you to register for free for a trial period; others offer free listings or the option between commission based and subscription based listings. Sign up with the cheapest entry package and if you get a few enquiries, upgrade your listing to get to the top of the list.

The Listing Manager offers you a data base of over 300 Online Accommodation Directories sorted by categories and ranked. Using the Listing Manager, you will have access to first hand information where to list your establishment, which ultimately will save you a lot of time and money.