Setting Up a DNA Surname Project

If you are like any other genealogist, you have spent quite a few years corresponding and working with other researchers in an attempt to prove surname connections, it may possibly have crossed your thoughts that a DNA Surname Study could aid the effort to fill in some of the missing holes.

The finest way of organizing and managing a DNA Surname Analyze is very much a matter of individual preference. There are, however, several basic goals which need to have to be met:

1. Create a Working Hypothesis – A DNA Surname Analyze is not likely to provide any meaningful results unless you first determine what you’re trying to accomplish for your spouse and children surname. Your goal might be really broad (how are all the EDWARDS families inside the world related) or quite particular (do the EDWARDS families of western Virginia  all descend from William EDWARDS).
2. Choose a Testing Center – Once you’ve determined your objective you have to have a better idea of what kind of DNA testing services you will require. Several DNA Laboratories, such as Family Tree DNA or Relative Genetics, will also assist you with setting up and organizing your surname analyze. Costs per test can also be reduced should you get a large group to participate at one time.
3. Recruit Participants – If you’re already working together with a group of men and women on a specific surname then you might locate it relatively easy to recruit participants from the group for a DNA Surname Research. If you have not been in touch with other researchers of your surname, nonetheless, you’ll need to have to track down many established lineages for your surname and obtain participants from each of these lines. Outside of direct contact, you may wish to turn to surname mailing lists and loved ones organizations to promote your DNA Surname Test. Making a Web site with info about your DNA Surname Test is also an excellent method for attracting participants. As you correspond with potential participants, remember that DNA is usually a quite personal subject, and you’ll will need to become prepared to answer quite a few questions. Education is the key to acceptance.
4. Manage the Project – Managing a DNA Surname Test can be a really a big job. The key to success is in organizing the venture in an efficient manner and keeping participants informed of progress and results. Generating and maintaining a Web site or mailing list specifically for task participants might be of excellent assistance. As mentioned above, some DNA testing labs will also offer assistance with organizing and managing your DNA surname project. It should go without saying, but it truly is also critical to honor any privacy restrictions made by your participants.

In conclusion, it truly is vitally crucial to keep in mind that DNA testing for the purposes of proving ancestry isn’t a substitute for traditional family history analysis. Instead, it can be a tool to become utilized in conjunction with family members history study to aid in proving or disproving suspected relationships. It is certainly an exciting new tool to add to your genealogy toolbox!