Research usually begins with an analysis of the problem and a survey of published sources.
The initial survey allows an estimate of probable research success and helps you judge the prospective researcher's services. Depending on the available records and the individual family, this survey may produce a considerable or modest amount of information. To ensure the preliminary survey does not merely duplicate what you already know, provide the professional with all the information you have on the specific genealogical problem. In addition to this summary, include photocopies of the actual documents - not irreplaceable originals. By examining these records, including sources already checked with no positive results, the professional may find clues that have gone unnoticed.