Pls how can I create a directory?

Pls can anyone give me tips on how to create a directory of providers. Something like a searchable database of contacts. I would be able to add contacts addresses, business names and phone numbers/emails and then it would be able to be listed alphabetically via a search.

Please has anyone done this before? Any tips appreciated. Thanks

There are many ways to accomplish things in MODx.

If you are planning a large directory then you might be better off using custom tables and the API. If you have limited numbers of providers then you could create TV’s that store the unique attributes of the entity, assign them to a template. Create the document, populating the TV’s and content you will use. Then use Ditto to display the listings from a container page. Think of a "provider" as a blog post. Then it may be clearer too you. Be sure to check the WIKI for how to examples.

The general rule is that MODx (0.9.6.x - 1.0 Evolution; 2.0 Revolution is another matter altogether, but is still in beta) starts to slow down at around 5,000 documents. So if you don’t expect to have more providers than that, using a document for each provider, then using Ditto or the A-Z listing snippet would be the quickest and easiest way. As netdoctor said, use TVs to add
more fields for the document.

Depending on what, exactly, providers are (are they going to be actual registered users of your site?) you can also use WebLoginPE in Register and Profile mode to gather data from them, Manager mode to have an admin user manage them, and Users mode to list them.