Directories
Directories are used to group together contact and location information for a broad range of topics that is needed to meet a user need.
A directory is made up of:
- directory items
- facets
Examples of directories
A benefit of using a directory is that a user can filter through facets by the search function within the directory or by using the map to see what is near them.
You must have at least five entries to create a directory. Any less, you should consider inserting them in the page where they are relevant for the user.
Facets
Facets allow users to filter the directory to find specific content related to their needs.
When designing the facet structure, you should avoid situations where no items could be displayed.
Before creating a new facet, you should first make sure that the same facet doesn't already exist.
Users must be able to quickly understand each facet category, and how it differentiates from the other facet categories – there must not be any overlap with facet.
How to determine facets
You should research what search terms people use to find the content that already exists. It may give hidden clues to how users will want to filter the results.