A directory is a folder used to manage files within computers, including PCs and servers.

In the context of a website, all data is managed within the server. As the number of pages on a site increases, managing files can become complex. Complex file management can hinder site administration, making directory optimization essential. Properly arranged directories make it easier for search users and search engines to understand the overall structure of a website. Therefore, optimizing directory structure is a significant aspect of SEO strategies .

As SEO consultants, we will explain the concept and advantages of directories in a way that’s accessible to beginners. We will also cover effective directory structures for SEO and summarize how to build a directory structure. Please check the entire article for more information.

What is a Directory Structure?

A directory, in computer terminology, refers to a folder that organizes file data within computing devices. The term ‘directory’ is primarily used in two contexts:

-Referring to the directory hierarchy within a personal computer

-Referring to the directory hierarchy within a website

However, the concept remains the same for both: a place (folder) where file data is stored. For instance, in the first scenario, it refers to folders organizing OS data within a computer device.

On the other hand, in the second scenario, it points to folders that organize website data within a server.

Types of Directories in Website

Directories are classified into two types based on their location:

• Subdirectories
• Root directory

Subdirectories

Subdirectories are directories placed directly under the root directory. Typically, websites use subdirectories to categorize article pages by category or theme.

Root Directory

The root directory is at the top hierarchy of the directory structure and serves as the starting point. Hence, the term ‘root’ originates from the English word for ‘foundation’ or ‘base.’ Being at the highest level, the root directory encompasses all data within its subsequent levels.

Optimizing your website’s directory structure 

Optimizing your website’s directory structure organizes the information within, leading to several benefits:

• Makes it easier for search engines to understand your website
• Simplifies page management for site operators

Easier for Search Engines to capture information from a website

Proper directory structure design makes it easier for search engines to grasp your website’s content. 

Search engines crawl websites globally to determine search results. When your directory structure is tidy, crawlers can navigate your site more efficiently, enhancing SEO.

Simpler for Site Operators 

Correctly arranging directories allows operators to easily comprehend the site’s layout. Without a clear structure, locating specific pages becomes challenging, complicating updates. A straightforward directory structure enables quick decisions about where web pages are located, reducing task time.

Characteristics of an SEO-Friendly Directory Structure 

An optimized directory structure not only conveys information to search engines more effectively but also boosts SEO. Features of a strong directory structure include:

• Few clicks to reach the desired page
• Pyramid-shaped structure
• Breadcrumb navigation
• Clear directory names

Few Clicks to Destination 

A structure that allows users to reach their desired page with few clicks is user-friendly. Ideally, every page should be accessible within three clicks from the homepage, necessitating a thoughtful layout of directory levels and internal linking. 

This convenience encourages revisits, benefiting SEO.

Pyramid-Shaped Structure 

Efficient websites often have a pyramid-shaped directory structure, with the homepage at the top and layers expanding downwards. This structure means the first layer is the homepage alone, followed by categorized pages in the second layer, increasing in number as layers deepen. Such organization helps search engines accurately perceive the website’s coverage, aiding SEO.

Breadcrumb Navigation 

Breadcrumbs help both search engines and users understand a web page’s location within the site. Breadcrumbs, showing the path from the homepage to the current page, facilitate the transmission of correct site information, offering an SEO advantage.

Related Article: What is a Breadcrumb List?

Clear Directory Names 

Naming directories after their content themes clarifies the page’s subject for users. 

For instance, a marketing column could be placed under “/column/marketing/,” making the thematic content within the directory clear.

The process of creating a directory structure

The process of creating a directory structure involves the following steps:

1. Visualize the Overall Picture of the Website 

2. Create a Directory Map 

3. Implement the Directories

• Visualize the Overall Structure of the Website 

When creating a new website, the first step is to visualize its overall structure.

For example, for a site themed around SEO, you might plan to include content such as:

• Articles explaining SEO
• Articles on web marketing
• Articles on web advertising
• Articles about the SEO industry
• Articles on the latest SEO news

This leads to the realization that directories like the following are needed:

• SEO Basics
• Web Marketing
• Web Advertising
• SEO Industry
• News

• Create a Directory Map 

Based on the brainstorming in step 1, you proceed to create a directory map. A directory map is an internal site plan that details which pages will be grouped under which directories.

Creating a website involves various professionals such as producers, content directors, writers, and engineers. It’s crucial for all parties involved in the website to have a common understanding of the overall site structure. Hence, creating a directory map becomes essential.

The elements included in a directory map can vary based on the site’s nature and internal policies. Generally, it might include:

• Page titles
• Page content
• Directories (category information)
• Page URLs
• Notes

Using Excel or spreadsheets is helpful for creating documents like these.

• Implement the Directory

Based on the directory map, you then implement the directory.

The method of implementation can vary depending on how the site is operated. For example, if the site is managed through a CMS, you would use the CMS to create new folders.

Common Questions About Directory Structures

Here we have compiled some frequently asked questions about a directory.

Q: What is the role of a directory? 

A: It manages files (data) within a computer.

Q: What is the difference between a directory and a folder? 

A: Directory is a computer term that abstracts the concept of a folder.

Strictly speaking, a directory refers to something that classifies or organizes information stored on a computer. It implies the construction of data placement within a computer. On the other hand, a folder refers to data used to bundle files together.

Q: What is the difference between a directory and a sitemap? 

A: Directories and sitemaps have entirely different meanings.

A sitemap is a data file used to visualize the structure of a website. For more information, please check the article below.

Related Article: What is a Sitemap?

Q: What is a directory map? 

A: It’s the blueprint of a website.

Specifically, it’s an internal document that compiles information about web pages, such as page titles, page content, page URLs, and categories. Creating a directory map helps grasp the overall picture of the website, thus aiding in site management tasks.

Q: What is the current directory on a website? 

A: The current directory is the directory of the web page that the visitor is currently viewing.

Summary 

Directories on a website are set up to organize web pages. Generally, as a website operates longer, the number of web pages increases. Hence, it becomes necessary to organize the website’s information using directories. Optimizing the directory structure helps manage the increasingly vast number of pages within a website. Additionally, it facilitates the accurate transmission of information to search engines, contributing to SEO strategies.

Author Profile

Mr. Takeshi Amano, CEO of Admano Co., Ltd.

Mr. Takeshi Amano is a graduate of the Faculty of Law at Nihon University. With 12 years of experience working in the advertising agency industry, he discovered SEO and began his research during the early days of SEO. He self-taught and conducted experiments and verifications on over 100 websites. Using this expertise, he founded Admano Co., Ltd., which is currently in its 11th year of operation. Mr. Amano handles sales, SEO consulting, web analytics (holding the Google Analytics Individual Qualification certification), coding, and website development. The company has successfully managed SEO strategies for over 2000 websites to date.

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