How to Use the New Image Import Feature in eDirectory 13.6
Introduction
eDirectory version 13.6 revolutionizes your listing workflow by introducing seamless image importing! This powerful new feature allows you to upload images directly alongside your listing details, saving you valuable time and dramatically enhancing the visual appeal of your directory. Follow this comprehensive guide to master the new image import functionality.
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing Listings with Images:
1. Download the Updated Import Template:
- Navigate to Content Manager > Import > Listings within your eDirectory Site Manager.
- Click on the prominent "Download Template File" button to obtain the latest Excel (.xlsx) file designed for importing your listings.
2. Populate the Template with Listing Details and Image Links:
- Fill in all the standard listing information within the template file, just as you would in previous eDirectory versions.
- You'll now notice new, dedicated columns specifically designed for image import:
- Logo Image
- Cover Image
- Gallery Main Image
- Gallery Image 1, Gallery Image 2, ..., Gallery Image 10 (allowing for up to ten gallery images)
3. Inserting Direct Image URLs:
- In these newly added image columns, carefully paste the direct URLs (web addresses) of your desired images.
- Crucially, the system exclusively supports hosted image URLs. This means your images must be uploaded to a cloud-based platform that generates direct, publicly accessible links to the image files.
- For reliable and easy image hosting, we highly recommend using platforms like ImageShack. You can create a free account, effortlessly upload your images, and generate the necessary direct links for your eDirectory import template.
Important Considerations for Image Links:
- Google Drive Incompatibility: Please note that Google Drive links are currently not compatible with the eDirectory image import feature. It is essential to utilize an alternative image hosting service like ImageShack to ensure successful image integration.
- Mandatory Link Format: Ensure that all image links adhere to the following precise format:
https://example.com/example.jpg
. The link must point directly to the image file itself and conclude with a valid image file extension, such as.jpg
,.png
, or.gif
.- Example of a Valid Image Link:
https://imageshack.com/i/pmExAmPl3j
- Example of a Valid Image Link:
4. Uploading Your Completed Template:
- Once you have meticulously filled out the template with all your listing details and the corresponding direct image URLs:
- Return to Content Manager > Import > Listings within your eDirectory Site Manager.
- Locate the file upload section and upload your completed Excel template file.
5. Finalizing the Import Process:
- Proceed with the standard listing import process as you normally would.
- Upon completion of the import, your listings will now appear on your eDirectory site, beautifully enhanced with the associated images you linked in the template!
Further Resources:
- Detailed Explanation of Import Fields: For a comprehensive breakdown of each field within the import template, please refer to this article: How to fill out the import fields
- General Listing Import Process: To gain a deeper understanding of the overall listing import process in eDirectory, please consult this article: How Do I Import Listings?
Conclusion
With the introduction of this intuitive image import feature in eDirectory 13.6, enriching the visual appeal of your directory listings while streamlining your content upload workflow has never been easier. Should you have any questions or require any assistance during this process, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated support team!