How to use the Related Listings Widget

Introduction

eDirectory version 13 introduces a powerful tool designed to boost user engagement and cross-promotion: the "Related Listings" widget. Unlike the "Linked Listings" widget, which relies on manual associations, the "Related Listings" widget dynamically displays relevant listings based on predefined criteria, such as category and location. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to effectively utilize this widget, using a real estate scenario as an example.

Understanding the Related Listings Widget

The "Related Listings" widget automatically populates a listing detail page with other listings that share relevant characteristics. This feature significantly enhances user experience by providing access to similar listings, increasing the likelihood of user interaction and conversion.

Scenario:

Imagine you're managing a real estate directory. You want to display other houses in the same neighborhood on a property listing detail page. The "Related Listings" widget allows you to achieve this seamlessly.

Implementing the Related Listings Widget: A Step-by-Step Guide

To add the "Related Listings" widget to your listing templates, follow these instructions:

  1. Access Content Management: Log in to your Site Manager and navigate to the "Content" section.

  1. Navigate to Listing Templates: Within the "Content" section, click on "Listings" and then select "Listing Templates."
  2. Choose Template: Select the specific listing template where you want to add the "Related Listings" widget.

  1. Add Widget: Scroll to the desired location on the template and click the "+" icon or the "Add the widget" button at the bottom of the page.

  1. Select Related Listings Widget: Locate the "Related Listings" widget and click on it to open the widget editor.

  1. Configure Widget Settings:
    • Label: Enter a descriptive label for the widget. In our example, we'll use "Other houses in the region."
    • Listing Appearance: Choose how you want listings to appear. Select "Location" to display listings in the same neighborhood.
    • Ordering Criteria: Define two criteria for ordering the results. The first criterion has higher priority. We'll select "Most Viewed." For the second criterion (used in case of a tie), we'll choose "Alphabetical."
    • Display Limits: Specify the number of listings to display and the number of columns.
    • Plan Selection: Choose the listing plans to include in the related listings. In our example, we'll select "Bronze and Silver."

  1. Save Widget: Click "Save" to apply the widget settings.

  1. Save Template Changes: Remember to click "Save Changes" on the Listing Templates Editor page to finalize the changes.

Outcome

After completing these steps, all listings associated with the modified listing template will display the "Related Listings" widget, showcasing relevant listings based on your chosen criteria.

Benefits of the Related Listings Widget

  • Increased User Engagement: Provides users with access to similar listings, encouraging them to explore more content.
  • Enhanced Cross-Promotion: Promotes listings within the same category or location, increasing visibility.
  • Automated Relevance: Dynamically displays relevant listings, eliminating the need for manual association.
  • Improved User Experience: Provides a more comprehensive and informative browsing experience.

Conclusion

The "Related Listings" widget in eDirectory 13 is a valuable tool for enhancing user engagement and cross-promoting listings. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively implement this widget and provide your users with a more dynamic and informative browsing experience. By using this widget, you will increase the amount of time that a user spends on your site.

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