Improving data tables for Usability & SEO

[TheDude]

I have some large html data tables that look horrible (see bottom of http://www.jwsuretybonds.com/surety-bonds/commercial-bonds/auto_dealer_bond.htm).  To my surprise, heat map tests actually proved them to be useful in improving our conversion rates to get visitors to apply for the bond they need.  We are looking at ways to better the user experience while still keeping the data visible to search spiders.  One idea was to use a dropdown list to filter by states.

With new web technologies, there must be a better way to utilize this data.  What are some alternatives?

[HiveDigitalInc]

I actually prefer the list, but that might just be me. It makes the page feel authoritative because all that content is exposed. You may just want to make all the data exposed at first and a drop down allows you to hide everything but the specific content, so users can avoid scrolling if they choose.

[TheDude]

Thanks for the input!

I think you make some good points.  What you recommended is precisely what our current plan was for the new site.  I just didn't know if there is any other decent options.  You've given me a bit more confidence that we are going in the right direction.  Thanks.