<p>Finding a Family History Researcher Takes Research </p><p>Too often the relief of securing a family history researcher AKA professional genealogist will stop the consumer from proper investigation of the individual or company they have contracted with.</p><p>The world is changing and along with it are the methods by which the average citizen is gaining knowledge of their family tree. Some have relied on their own sweat and tears via courthouse and other institutions that house vital ancestral records. Others have searched online sources that contain data bases of documents submitted by others in hopes that a connection can be made.</p><p>The internet has forever altered methods of research and although some of these methods can be regarded as less than admirable, we cannot deny that there are some that have content worthy of our attention. Sites that include on-line viewing of the census and immigration records have immense genealogical value; however what is done with these records once found is the true test of proper research. For all their worth these documents are only as good as the researcher that came to find them. Genealogy is still a fallible trade; however those with years of experience in the field are far less capable of committing serious error. Professionals know that to check and re-check their sources and to cite them is a necessity for any pedigree to be properly presented. </p><p>There are Goliath’s in the industry today and they most certainly have a wealth of information to bestow to the public for a price, yet it must be considered that the bottom line to any large corporate institution is the cash that comes from those that believe branding is equal to quality. As the trend towards genealogy becomes more about whom we are related to and less about how we prove the relationship it is now more than ever, of the utmost importance to instill ethics in the mindset of the consumer.</p><p>To say that genealogy is a not a for-profit field would be ludicrous as even the independent researcher charges the client for their service and so it should be. The time, experience and energy that go into a single case are worth the rewards to the family that has been traced and documented. It is the way in which researchers are found that may be of some concern; therefore one must look to the reasons of why any company chooses to set up practice, who they are and if they have experience in anything other than a financial gain. It is not that difficult to find a reputable company or individual if you are willing to perform a bit of investigation.</p><p>There are some entities that consider the field from the inside; that is, they have personal interest in genealogy in either a professional research experience or as a long time, avid family historian. They typically have the concerns of their customers in mind and they consistently include change to their services based on the users’ suggestion. There are a few companies who fit these criteria and who appear to have an ethical approach to their business practices. The following are just a few.</p><p>Genealogy Freelancers is a unique type of system which was launched in 2008. I classify it as unique because there is no other site in existence like it (to date anyway). It allows for a person interesting in tracing their family tree to post an ancestry project on their website. and receive offers by genealogists from around the world. The professionals have the option to list their credentials that are then verified by the GenealogyFreelancers team. There is also a rating system in place that allows both the client and professional to document their experience. The commissions are reasonable considering the advertising that a single professional must pay searching for the client and for the poster who has neither the time nor inclination to search for the professional. The offers are made private so there is no possibility that a rate war will ensue. Overall; this is a unique and interesting concept. The owners of the site have individual experience in genealogy, are easy to contact and they encourage and implement suggestion.</p><p>FamilyStoryLines http://www.familystorylines.com is another company that clearly takes the field seriously. Client testimony points to a warm staff that insures the client that each case is taken seriously. Service includes national and international research performed by professionals. There are packages available and the final outcome is presented in an attractive end result.</p><p>Expert Genealogy http://www.expertgenealogy.com is a directory of genealogists from numerous locations. You can ask a general question in order to be directed to an expert in the location of your search or you can go directly to the site of any independent company listed in the directory.</p><p>Of course any new, good idea will be imitated by the monopolies who will claim first place, but the pioneers who persevere do so, because they believe in what they do. Their small size then should not be discounted. As in any business that is presented to the public it is up to the consumer to weed through the hype and to check into who they choose to shake hands with. A mammoth company does not always present the best business practice, nor is it set in stone that a smaller company is a sure testament to good principles. One must peek behind the curtain, ask many questions and if the answers allow for comfort then your decision will be made with comfort as well.</p>