Question

What is the difference between Google and a subject directory like Yahoo Directory or Infomine?

Answer 1

On a daily basis, we use search engines and directories as tools to find information on the web. However, the difference is how they get and organize their information.

Search engines use small programs like bots or spiders that search thoroughly through the internet, follow links, and sends back information to the search engine’s index. Subject directories, on the other hand, are human powered. Website owners submit their sites to directories and human editors determine the value of the site and whether or not it should be included in the directory.

Search engines use phrases and keywords to locate information on the internet while subject directory allows users to find information by using hierarchy.

Answer 2

Google is a huge platform where tons of information can be found. This can range from common questions, to job postings, the weather and directions. Using a source like Yahoo Directory or Infomine is more subject specific and used for smaller scale searches where the information options doesn't need to be as long.