Courtesy of A-Z 2026

The internet has shrunk the world to the size of a matchbox.

It enables us through email or a variety of apps and websites to connect with people we knew from school, university or employment. It also bridges the gap between family and friends. Relationships can to continue, renewed and made online, and that a great thing. We can engage in online learning, from online providers such as Pharos Tutors and the Society of Genealogists, undertake degree courses and professional development. Sure, there are downsides, but used appropriately, I believe the positive outweighs any negatives.

The genealogical world is one that has embraced online opportunities. We can sit at home and access a wide variety of material from indexes to actual images that might relate to our own family history or a wider, bigger project such as a One-Name, or One-Place Study. As part of the development of science and genetics we can take DNA tests and familiarise ourselves with DNA results, whether that is our own, or that which relates to a DNA project.

This enables me to share posts like this one, and more importantly, I can receive comments and I do reply to each one. I find it curious that some sites, whilst sharing information do not openly engage in communication with readers – totally baffling!

Communication is a really important element of being online, enabling us to share experiences, interests and connection with likeminded people. I think it fair to say that genealogy is a hobby that engages with others, at a variety of levels and there is nothing quite like the feeling of excitement at receiving an email from a researcher wondering if a genealogical connection exists.