1. A method implemented in a computer system acting as a directory node, connectable to a computer network, for managing service records, said method comprising the steps of: receiving a service record from a service provider, the service record specifying at least one service category; determining if a specified service category is within the scope of at least one specific service category that said directory node manages; and storing the service record, responsive to a determination that the specified service category is within the scope of said at least one specific service category.