MSN Search Testing DMOZ Descriptions
According to a thread titled MSN uses DMOZ description at Webmaster World, site publishers have been noticing that the default descriptions of their web sites which are served in the MSN Search results are being provided by the Netscape Open Directory Project (DMOZ). While Google has been using the DMOZ for some index descriptions for years, this is the first occurrence of such results in MSN Search, fortifying the importance of listings in the DMOZ authoritative directory.
On the other hand, some search engine optimization (SEO) practitioners have voiced their concerns over the DMOZ descriptions. Aaron Wall of Threadwatch questions the relevancy and control of such edited site listings and is looking for ways of avoiding them as defaults in MSN Search :
I have seen an increasingly large number of SEOs become perturbed at the low relevancy or low quality of the marketing message provided by their DMOZ descriptions. Is a DMOZ listing still worth getting? In what markets would you recommend getting it / avoiding it?
Are any other webmasters or publishers seeing similar results in MSN Search? Please feel free to list examples and voice your opinion on DMOZ below in the comment field.
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Comments
2 responses so far ↓
Bhawna on Dec 27, 2005 at 11:58 pm
Really..??
If this is true then submitting your site to DMOZ will be very effective i think
Marc King on Jan 11, 2006 at 12:10 pm
DMOZ is dead - avoid it at all costs. Two cases in point: 1. Apptera a v-business company - as voice interactive business technology has evolved from IVR to Speech to v-business the company’s listings on google and MSN are still showing a DMOZ description from 2001 listing it as an IVR company. 2. Hiller Aviation museum - Another early description lists Hiller as “a general information site.” when Hiller has extensive background on California aviation history as well as tremendous community outreach through regular events with children participation. In both cases the listing is inaccurate and does a disservice to the public and prospective customers as well as the businesses. The only apparent method of editing these listings is to register as an editor with DMOZ. I have filled out the form and received an automated confirmation - returning the confirmation (required) came back undeliverable. Be warned DMOZ is an outdated concept that has no value in relevant listings for your site. List with DMOZ at your own peril.
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