What exactly is the relationship between dmoz and google?

Google uses the DMOZ data for their directory, though the listings are sorted differently, in descending order according to PageRank.

At one time the Directory was linked to from Google's main page, but that's no longer the case. That doesn't necessarily mean the Directory is less important, it appears to be more of a matter of how they choose to use the main page real estate.

The Google and DMOZ directories both count toward PR and anchor text, as would any other links, but whether there's any significance toward scoring is more of a matter of interpretation, with some differences of opinion, and is a Google Search algo issue.

Thanks, Marcia!! I was beginning to think there was some partnership or ownership, rather, going on there...

Having a DMOZ listing almost guarantees your inclusion in Google's index. Almost, but not quite. Some people manage to shoot themselves in the foot with dumb SEO tactics. Some people just get sandboxed for no obvious reason.

Assuming you get into the index, having a DMOZ listing with the right title and description can be VERY helpful as far as your SERP rankings go.

>>some partnership or ownership, rather, going on there...

No partnership or ownership, but as Michael indicated, there can be value as far as rankings are concerned, not only for Google but for other engines as well.

What is this I keep reading about having "unique content" in order to be listed in dmoz?

Are you lost? this thread isn't about that.

>>What is this I keep reading about having "unique content" in order to be listed in dmoz?

I think we're seeing two issues intermingled here. The Google/ODP issue is a different matter from what's required for acceptance into ODP. Unique - because there's no benefit to having a boatload of sites the same, all cranked out from the same datafeeds or with content scraped from other sites.

And BTW, Google and other search engines also want unique content on sites in their index, technically. That's why ODP listings have a degree value to search engines (one reason), because they're screened by humans.

Sorry to go off topic, kctipton... as for the thread, I started it. :p Thanks for the helpful response, Marcia!!