Users can send and receive local as well as national and international messages and download shareware programs. Many user groups maintain a computer database of members' ancestors for the purpose of discovering common ancestors and sharing information. There are various ways to do this. A backup copy of the member's Personal Ancestral File database can be submitted, in which case all people in the database would be eligible for matching. This help can be given by phone or in the home.
Experienced users make their availability known by having their names placed on a list.
Persons needing help can call the chairperson who will in turn select a tutor for them. Another variation is to have a beginner assigned to one person who will help them whenever needed. Once you have established the type of user group you will have, you will need to establish a budget. Determine your expense items and estimate how many members you will have. Equipment purchases may have to be made whenever the funds are available.