Web directories are a common tool used by webmasters and online business owners to build incoming links to their websites.

While there are several newer types of Web directories available now (like bidding directories), directories still tend to fall into two major groupings: free Web directories and paid / premium Web directories. The DirSensei Business Web Directory is an example of the latter.

The biggest difference between free and premium Web directories is often found in the quality of the links included, with paid directories usually having fewer links, but more quality links. Unlike even a lot of premium Web directories, the DirSensei Web Directory seems to have a genuine interest in making the best links and resources available, with that desire mattering more than collecting site submission fees. Here’s why:

1. They keep all links child-safe as a basic service to readers.

2. They add informational links to quality sites in most categories (such as regional areas and health to DirSensei / Kids and Teens), which are respected sites known to be quality resources in their niches.

3. They allow non-profits to submit links for consideration, while waiving their normal link submission fees.

What I love most about DirSensei is the fact that the points previously mentioned demonstrate a real desire to create a quality resource for the visitor and not just for webmasters looking to build links. You don’t see that often enough with Web directories, but they’re doing these things with an intent of having users actually use the site as a tool in their search for information. That in turn creates a more valuable resource for webmasters anyway, as the directory works to put their links in front of actual targeted visitors who are looking for information in the niche of their submitted site(s).

The site also offers the Dirsensei Blog, another service to webmasters and other visitors, where a variety of free tools and resources are offered, including:

• A list of directories and their owners.
• Free Esyndicat templates.
• phpLD templates.
• Free Site Sift templates.
• Free WordPress themes.
• and more….

There was really only one problem I found with the Dirsensei Web Directory, and it’s one that can be easily fixed: there seems to be a discrepancy between the site’s “guidelines” page and submission page regarding regular links. On the submission page, it’s clear that regular links are permanent. On the guidelines page, however, there’s a blanket note stating that all link options are handled with a yearly subscription model. Overall though, it looks to be an excellent directory, not only for submitting links, but also for its more casual visitors.