Introducing Directorist 8.0: The Ultimate Directory Plugin Just Got Even Better!

Big Reveal: Version 8 is Here—Smarter, Sleeker, and Ready to Wow!

The wait is over! We are thrilled to announce the release of Directorist Version 8.0, the most powerful and versatile directory plugin for WordPress has just leveled up. This latest version brings a host of new features, enhancements, and optimizations that make building and managing your directory website easier and more efficient than ever before.

With a keen focus on user experience, Directorist 8.0 introduces AI directory building capacity with a refined interface and streamlined workflows, enabling both newcomers and seasoned developers to create stunning directories without the steep learning curve. Enhanced customization options provide unprecedented flexibility, allowing you to tailor every aspect of your directory to meet your specific needs.

From advanced Bricks-Directorist blocks to AI-generated directory creation, Directorist 8.0 is designed to keep you ahead of the curve. Whether you’re building a directory website for any niche or classified ads website, this update equips you with the tools necessary to deliver an exceptional user experience.

Feeling excited to explore the cutting-edge features of Directorist 8.0?

Let’s dig deeper!

Latest Features in Directorist Version 8.0

In this release, we’ve added several exclusive features designed to make your directory website more powerful, flexible, and efficient.

1. AI-generated directory creation

The most exciting feature in the 8.0 is the ability to create directories using AI, enabling faster, smarter, and more efficient directory creation.

2. Bricks Directorist Blocks

In addition, we’ve introduced Bricks Directorist blocks, providing more versatility for users who prefer the Bricks Builder to create and manage their directory sites.

3. Mobile app v2.0

Directorist mobile app makes your directory website better accessible, highly interactive, and turns visitors into paying customers. What’s new in the v2.0? Here, you can add listing and integrate payment gateways, exciting, right?

4. Multiple professional directory in a single theme

You can get multiple directory templates within a single theme. And, you can use these templates to design your directory website.

5. Free full site editing theme (Pixetiq)

Directorist 8.0 now comes with Pixetiq, a free Full Site Editing (FSE) theme that you can use to design your directory websites. And, you can customize your directory layout without any speck of hassle.

6. Enhanced user interface (UI) and user experience (UX)

Our focus on user experience has led to develop a more intuitive and seamless UI. With this update, navigating and managing your directory website will become easier than before.

7. New sidebar filter layout for listings

We’ve introduced a brand-new sidebar filter layout that allows users to filter through listings quickly and efficiently, improving overall user experience.

8. Modern and improved ‘Form’ for adding listings

Adding listings is now streamlined with a modern and improved form, making it easier for users to submit detailed and organized information.

9. Advanced review system

V8.0 comes with Advanced Review System that supports multi-criteria and media. Now users can provide more detailed feedback, increasing trust and engagement.

10. REST API endpoints for integration

New REST API endpoints have been added for seamless integration with external platforms, opening up new opportunities for developers and website owners.

11. Listing search alerts (Premium)

Keep your users informed with listing search alerts, a pro feature that notifies users about relevant listings based on their search criteria.

12. Import any section, page or full site in one click

By using Templatiq, Directorist users can add any directory or non-directory component easily.

Improvements in Directorist Version 8.0

Alongside these latest features, we’ve made several important improvements to existing functionalities, ensuring smoother performance and better user experience.

1. Modern design overhaul

The design of Directorist has been completely revamped with a sleek, modern look that elevates the aesthetics and usability of your directory site.

2. Faster page load with reduced queries

We’ve optimized Directorist for performance, significantly reducing database queries and resulting in faster page load times, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.

3. Redesigned login and registration forms

The latest release features redesigned login and registration forms, offering a more user-friendly and visually appealing interface.

4. Sleek checkout and payment process

Checkout and payment receipt processes are now faster, more secure, and designed to provide a smoother, more visually appealing experience.

5. Extensive Gutenberg block integration

With improved Gutenberg block integration, building and customizing your directory pages is now more seamless, giving you more flexibility in design and functionality.

6. Enhanced Elementor Directorist blocks

Our existing Elementor Directorist blocks have been enhanced, making it easier to design stunning directory websites using the popular page builder.

7. Improved directory builder

Our directory builder has undergone significant improvements, offering more customization options, better performance, and a smoother workflow.

8. 28 Pre-made templates

Directorist now offers 28 pre-made templates, allowing users to quickly set up their directories without having to start from scratch.

Essential Things to Know Before Updating Directorist with Version 8.0

This version includes major updates, so it’s best to be extra careful. We strongly suggest you take a few extra steps to prepare before updating. This way, you can prevent any unexpected issues or disruptions.

Following these precautions will help ensure a smooth update process and protect your data.

1. Backup your site first

Make sure to back up your site before making any changes. We also recommend testing the new version in a staging environment first. This helps you catch any issues early and keeps your site safe.

2. Updating Directorist plugin templates in a child theme

If you’ve overridden Directorist templates in your child theme, it’s important to update them when new versions of Directorist come out to keep your site working properly. 

Let’s break it down in a step-by-step process:

Step i: Backup your custom templates

To backup your custom templates, first, navigate to: /wp-content/themes/your-child-theme/directorist/. Now, download your custom template files and save them as a backup before making any changes.

Step ii: Compare and update templates

To compare and update templates, first, visit Directorist Template Changes to see what has changed between versions 7 and 8. Next, review the template files in your child theme and adjust them as needed to align with the updated versions.

Step iii: Test your changes

After updating your templates, test your website to ensure everything is working correctly. Check the front end for any visible issues, look for errors in the browser console, and make sure your site functions properly on different devices and browsers.

Step iv: Future-proof your customizations

To future-proof your customizations, regularly keep an eye on Directorist updates and changelogs. Whenever possible, use hooks and filters instead of directly modifying template files. 

This will make future updates easier and keep your website running smoothly.

Easy Instructions on How to Properly Update Directorist with Version 8.0

To keep everything running smoothly after your upgrade, please follow these steps:

Step 1: Update the Directorist plugin

To get started with the latest features and improvements of Directorist, follow these simple steps to update your existing Directorist plugin with version 8.0:

1. First, Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
2. Now, Go to the Plugins section and click on Installed Plugins.
3. Next, Locate Directorist in the list of installed plugins and click on the “Update Now” button to install the latest version.
4. Wait for the update to complete. Make sure it’s finished before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Run the migration process

After updating Directorist, you’ll see an admin notice prompting you to run necessary migrations. This step is essential to make sure all your data and settings are fully compatible with Version 8.

1. First, click the admin notice that says, “Directorist needs to run a migration to complete the update.”
2. Next, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the migration process.

3. Make sure to complete this step because it’s important for aligning all your data with the updated version.

Step 3:  Special note for Elementor users

If you’re using Elementor and already have content on your site, we recommend installing AddonsKit for Elementor. 

This plugin is key for keeping your site’s layout stable and intact after updates, ensuring everything looks and functions as it should.

Step 4: Update your theme

To make sure your theme is fully compatible with the new Directorist version, please follow these instructions:

1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Directorist > Themes & Extensions.
2. Look for any available theme updates, and if there’s an update, click to install the latest version.

Step 5: Update your extensions

And lastly, update your Directorist’s extensions (if any). This final step will ensure that all components of your site work together seamlessly with the new version.

By following these steps, you’ll have a smooth transition to Directorist version 8!

⚠️ Important warning ⚠️

Directorist Version 8 introduces major improvements to the codebase, which may cause some design changes based on the site’s setup of the existing users. 

These updates aim to boost performance and functionality, but depending on your theme or customizations, your site’s layout might look slightly different after updating.

To ensure everything goes smoothly, we strongly recommend updating Version 8 on your staging site first. Compare your staging site to your live site, and if you notice any issues, reach out to our support team. Once any concerns are addressed, you can confidently update your live site.

Don’t forget to back up your site before making updates to your live environment.

What to Do If You Experience Any Issues

If you have any issues after updating, our Support Team is here to help. We’re closely monitoring feedback and ready to resolve any challenges you may encounter.

To Wrap Up

With Directorist Version 8.0, we have once again raised the bar for WordPress directory plugins. Whether you’re a business looking to create a niche directory or a developer managing multiple directories, Directorist 8.0 provides the flexibility, performance, and features you need to succeed.

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