Client Expectations

Client expectations can create a problem. Too often the client does not understand what the fees cover. Many clients who hire a genealogist do not know what to expect in return for their fee. Many are of the impression that automation and the Internet has made it possible for a genealogist to just go to a web site or published book and find the lineage traced back to the beginning of records, perhaps in the 16th century. That is far from reality.

Genealogical research is a time-consuming process that requires special knowledge of resources and analytical skill. Searches in many records are difficult, painstakingly made, and costly. Other searches are not so involved, but do take time. The process includes:

    1. Analysis of the data received from the client.
    2. Determining the objectives of the client.
    3. Analysis of the types of record sources available.
    4. Outlining and designing the research process.
    5. Searching the records including photocopies of documents or typed or handwritten extracts.
    6. Analysis, interpretation, explanation, and evaluation of the records searched.
    7. Compiling family group records and lineage charts.
    8. Research reports.
    9. Clerical activities, including computerizing data into a genealogical software program, printing out all pertinent information, copying it, and binding it into an appropriate package.

There are other things a client should know, for example, if he has requested that research be performed in the 20th century, he should know it can be difficult because of the right of privacy laws and protecting the personal information on those who are living.

Another problem that causes concern in a client is the duplication of previous research or telling them what they already know about their ancestors. The genealogist will not know what the client does or does not know about the ancestry unless the client tells the genealogist in advance. It is very important that the client furnish the genealogist with copies of all data previously acquired, the documents and the analysis of the information.


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