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.
