eDirectory Web Hosting

eDirectory Web Hosting

eDirectory is an online directory software application which is specifically developed to build online yellow-pages, buyer’s guides, and membership directories. eDirectory software puts the directory database online with ease. It supports multiple listing levels and can search listings by any field. This flexible software framework is designed for fast, low cost customization.

It is a fairly powerful and flexible application and its customization is almost a breeze to suit the needs and requirements of most directories. eDirectory includes search functionality, web-based account maintenance and online payment processing. eDirectory is a division of Arca Solutions, Inc a profitable, privately held, software development and consulting company with its headquarters in the Washington, DC metro area. The company specializes in web application development and was founded in the year 2003. eDirectory is primarily available in three set versions to cater to a diverse clientele and meet individual requirements. These include eDirectory as a service (Basic Edition and eCommerce), eDirectory owned license (eCommerce) and as eDirectory Publisher.

eDirectory Software System Requirements:
The application efficiently handles hosting and setup. All that is required is a web browser.
eDirectory Owned License – Unix/Linux:

• Apache with mod-rewrite enabled (mod-rewrite is not required, but allows for search engine friendly URLs. Most servers have it)
• PHP 4+ (5 if you have it)
• MySQL 4+ (5 if you have it)
• Ability to setup cron jobs
• GD 2+ Image libraries. This is installed on most Linux machines by default. If user does not have it however, the company helps you with this, and root access may be a requirement for this. eDirectory uses it to resize the uploaded images
• SSH access recommended for doing the setup.

eDirectory Owned License – Windows:

• It is possible to run eDirectory on a Windows server that has PHP and a MySQL database installed. It is highly recommended to get in touch with the sales representative before placing any orders as there are certain custom configuration requirements that need to be met.
• It is by far rated as a performance leader primarily due to easy maintenance and the low costs involved. It is essentially a feature rich application making it highly utilizable, flexible and robust. Its key features include:

• Searchable by any field: Standard implementation includes searches by name, category, location, and up to 20 keywords.
• Integrated Content Management System: Change the non-directory pages of the site with the integrated content management system. Upload photos and change text.
• Search Engine Optimized: The program enables SEO friendly URLs as well as comes equipped with the ability to manage Meta tags and keywords.
• Professional Grade Hosting: Their servers are hosted in professional grade data centers with uninterruptible power, physical security, and network monitoring. All servers have multiple processors, RAID drives, and high-bandwidth direct connections to the internet.
• Affordable Customization: The eDirectory advantage is the ability to customize the solution to meet the buyer’s needs. A highly skilled and professional team of top-flight development and design professionals can build the directory to the specifications the user may request. Fast, affordable, and professional.
• Customized to match the style of the website: The directory layout can be easily customized for a perfect and seamless match with existing web sites.
• Manage Directory Categories through the Site Manager Interface: Ability to add and edit directory categories any time through a web based interface.
• Listing owners can upload photos and graphics: Ability to display a graphic with each listing. Load a picture into the directory that will be displayed together with the listing information.
• Online Sign-up: This feature enables members to add their listings online and have them appear in real-time.
• Interactive features: The standard implementation includes links to members’ web sites, email addresses, and dynamic map to member location.
• Export data: The directory data can be downloaded any time through a secure web interface. Exports can be loaded into Microsoft Excel, Access or any text editor.
• Import data: Ability to import data from a wide variety of formats. An import script is custom built for the users’ data format. Additional costs may apply.
• Member administration: This feature enables members of the directory to update and manage their own listings by logging in to the administration section through a web based interface.
• Payment processing: This feature lets the user collect Membership dues or advertising fees by credit card, printable invoice, or PayPal payment processing. Allows the directory owner to charge for new listings in the directory. Allows pricing by category and by listing level to generate the most revenue possible. (Credit Card processing requires a merchant account and payment gateway)
• Automated Renewal Reminders: Listing Owners receive up to 3 email notifications to renew and update their listing prior to expiration.
• Multiple listing levels: Ability to include different features with each listing level. For example, the picture, or live web links can be limited to a premium listing level.
• Detail Pages: Each listing will be able to include a full page with further details.
• Real Time Usage tracking enables the administrator or member to track the number of times a particular listing is viewed, or the number of click-throughs on a particular web link.
• Generate email lists: Ability to generate email lists of advertisers in certain locations or categories which can be used to send newsletters
• Discount Code Management: Enables the directory administrator to create and edit discount codes over the web in real time, allowing easy management of special promotions.
• Search Stats: This allows the directory owner to determine if a listing has been viewed and how often it appeared the search results. It also gives useful information on what search criteria is being used the most.
• Save Searches: Users will be able to save search criteria and search results.
• Print Export Extensions: XML export to Quark® and InDesign®.

The following payment gateways work with eDirectory: PayPal, PayFlow, LinkPoint, Authorize.net, 2CheckOut, WorldPay and PSIGate. eDirectory can be customized to work with additional payment gateways and they will be quoted separately on an hourly basis.