> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.supadir.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Entity types and specializations

> Define what your catalog lists and how it's categorized.

Entity types and specializations are the backbone of your catalog's structure. Getting them right early saves a lot of cleanup later.

## What is an entity type?

An entity type defines **the kind of subject** your catalog lists. Every listing belongs to exactly one type.

| Catalog                 | Entity type(s)                  |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------- |
| Physiotherapy directory | Physiotherapist                 |
| Legal services          | Lawyer, Notary                  |
| Local services          | Plumber, Electrician, Carpenter |
| Podcast catalog         | Podcast                         |

You defined one entity type in the wizard. On the **Professional plan and above**, you can add more from **Dashboard → Settings → Entity types**.

### Why multiple types matter

With multiple entity types, each type can have its own:

* Set of specializations
* Set of custom fields
* Separate filter on the listing page

A medical directory might have `Doctor`, `Physiotherapist`, and `Dietitian` — each with relevant specializations and fields.

## Managing entity types

Go to **Dashboard → Settings → Entity types**.

* **Add type** — enter singular and plural name (e.g. "Lawyer" / "Lawyers")
* **Edit type** — rename at any time; affects all display text instantly
* **Delete type** — only possible if no listings are assigned to it

<Warning>
  Deleting an entity type with existing listings is blocked. Reassign or delete those listings first.
</Warning>

## What are specializations?

Specializations are filterable tags assigned to listings within a type. They allow visitors to narrow down search results.

### The label is customizable

The word "Specialization" is just the default. You can rename it per-catalog to match your niche:

* "Practice area" (law firm directory)
* "Service type" (trades directory)
* "Genre" (music catalog)
* "Category" (general directory)

Change this label in **Settings → General → Category label**.

### Managing specializations

Go to **Dashboard → Specializations**.

* **Add** — enter the name, assign to one or more entity types
* **Edit** — rename; takes effect on all listings that use it
* **Delete** — removes the specialization and unlinks it from all listings

<Tip>
  Start with 5–15 meaningful specializations rather than an exhaustive list. Too many choices overwhelm visitors. You can always add more as patterns emerge from how listing owners describe themselves.
</Tip>

## Custom fields

Custom fields extend the listing profile with data specific to your niche.

* **Text** — free text (e.g. "Years of experience")
* **Number** — numeric value (e.g. "Hourly rate")
* **Date** — a specific date (e.g. "Practicing since")
* **Boolean** — yes/no toggle (e.g. "Accepts insurance")
* **Select (dropdown)** — one option from a list (e.g. "Location type")
* **URL** — a link (e.g. "Booking page")

Fields can be marked as **required** (listing must fill it in) and **searchable** (visible as a filter on the listing page).

Manage custom fields in **Dashboard → Custom fields**.

<Info>
  The number of custom fields you can create depends on your plan: Starter (5 fields), Professional (20 fields), Business (unlimited).
</Info>