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Hiring a Professional Researcher (view source)
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* Abstracting and publishing records. | * Abstracting and publishing records. | ||
* Finding missing people. | * Finding missing people. | ||
=== '''Methods of Professional Genealogists''' === | |||
Regardless of the type of research they perform, most professional genealogists follow a similar research process, which is outlined below. Understanding this process will help you know what to expect from the genealogist you hire. | |||
'''''Define the Research Problem.''''' Good genealogists first review the information you already have. They discuss your research problem with you and make sure they clearly understand what you want them to accomplish. | |||
'''''Develop a Research Plan.''''' Genealogists next develop a research plan that outlines what they will do to find the information you want. Most plans consist of a prioritized list of the records the genealogist will search. Research plans can be written or verbal. Your genealogist may share the plan with you. | |||
'''''Conduct the Research.''''' As they follow their research plans, genealogists go to libraries, courthouses, archives, cemeteries, and other places to search for the information. As they search, they may photocopy pertinent records or acquire official copies. | |||
'''''Analyze the Findings.''''' Genealogists regularly review their research and make conclusions about what they have found. They also compare their findings with other documents to confirm or disprove conclusions. | |||
'''''Report the Findings.''''' Periodically, genealogists prepare reports about their research activities. The report should include photocopies or abstracts of important information. It may also include suggestions for continued research. | |||
'''''Prepare Forms.''''' Genealogist can prepare forms such as pedigree charts, family group sheets, and applications to lineage societies. They can enter information into a genealogical computer program for you. | |||
'''''Share Results.''''' Genealogists can help you share the results of your research. A genealogist can contribute the findings to genealogical databases such as Ancestral File, prepare articles or books, or submit names of ancestors to LDS temples. | |||
'''''Bill for Services.''''' Genealogists bill for their services at agreed-upon intervals. Bills should clearly identify the time spent and expenses incurred on the project to date. Bills are often included with reports. <br> | |||