I would agree with this, but I would add a word of warning too. Not mine, but written by Cliff Webb in his first edition of ‘My Ancestors Are Londoners, How Can I Find Out More About Them?’ I have posted this before, but it still rings true, especially in relation to Americans conducting research in British Archives. Any genealogical study needs careful planning and much reading in the home in advance, before plunging into Record Offices; where many precious hours can be wasted by inadequate preparation. I make no apology therefore for recommending the perusing (if not purchasing) of a large number of books and pamphlets [see references in book]. It is perplexing that many people, who accept that most skills and subjects cannot be learned without substantial study of written materials, expect to be able to conduct genealogical research without ever reading a text on the subject. Brian From: Karla Huebner [mailto:calypsospots@gmail.com] Sent: 03 January 2016 14:22 To: Brian Swann; genealogy-dna@rootsweb.com Subject: Re: [DNA] How long will is be before high technology puts us out of business I would suggest that although many more people have taken up genealogy in recent years due to the comparative ease of research (and for many, the chance to put together a tree without any skills or understanding of its accuracy), there will always be people who enjoy research and figuring out puzzles. Serious genealogists are that sort of person. As a university professor, I find that although most of my students regard research as a rather annoying part of gaining the BA or BFA, some are naturally inclined to enjoy it and some discover how much fun it can be and become very excited about their work. I think part of the task (for both professors and genealogists) is to convey how enjoyable and interesting (if also often frustrating) research can be. It is not for everyone, of course, but we want to awaken the interest in those who can enjoy and excel at it. In terms of genealogy, some will follow the science and others will follow the history, and some will do a bit of both. The main thing is to excite their interest and ensure that they learn the necessary skills. On Sun, Jan 3, 2016 at 7:45 AM, Brian Swann via <genealogy-dna@rootsweb.com> wrote: I will have been in this game for 50 years in 2017. So I have seen many, many people, projects and ideas come and go. And even though I know a moderate amount about DNA sequencing and analysis for family history, I am unlikely to get into genome readers or analysing my BAM files. Some people will, but I would be willing to bet those same people will not devote the time to generating the necessary datasets to analyse their own male surnames to get past where they are brick-walled. They have given up on that possibility and are getting their gratification elsewhere. Some will do it, of course, but they are the folk at the extreme end of the distribution curve. Brian