1. Ease of use – I am a non-programmer and can’t even do HTML or CSS, yet the Directorist is VERY easy to understand. The layout is quite intuitive and I was able to figure almost everything out as needed. When I couldn’t figure it out I found the documentation to be very thorough.
2. Features – hands down, the Directorist has the greatest depth. We needed multiple directories, chat capability, ability to list business hours, wanted Facebook/Google registration, FAQs, Google ReCAPTCHA, a booking system for meetings, ability to have reviews, bookmarking/favoriting etc…
3. Affordability – again, the Directorist came out on top. Some plugins appear less expensive at first until you add up what the cost of all the add-ons comes to.

The shift to a paid model feels more like a greedy strategy to squeeze money out of users than a decision to improve the product. The quality of service doesn’t justify the exorbitant price they’re charging. Furthermore, the lack of transparency in communication about this change is unacceptable. We’ve been left in the dark and feel abandoned by a company we once trusted.

Instead of enhancing the user experience, this move seems more focused on lining the pockets of the company behind Jetpack. I feel betrayed and frustrated by this decision, and I’m seeking out more ethical and affordable alternatives to improve my WordPress site. I wouldn’t recommend Jetpack to anyone in its current state unless they’re willing to shell out money for a service that used to be free and reliable.