There are a number of reasons researchers might want to check out compiled genealogies CDs: The information found may not have been published elsewhere. The information may lead to related researchers. The information may provide leads to other resources and starting places to research. Sources of the data might be included, indicating a dedicated researcher who has left a road map for you to follow, and making it easier for you to locate primary sources and original records. Just as important to consider, there are a number of faults to keep in mind when viewing a compiled genealogies CD: Not all research is equal -- what one researcher might consider to be good research practices may fall short of another researcher's expectations, and people have varying levels of skills and expertise. Genealogies compiled in the 19th century and before are often less than accurate due to weak research and researchers' biases. Data submitters may no longer be alive, or they may not be reached at the contact address given, thus negating a valuable resource. Most important of all -- the data may not have been thoroughly verified and sourced. The key to using a compiled genealogies CD successfully is to tackle it with a reasonable research strategy: Treat the CD as you would any other resource by following the basic precepts underlying good genealogy research -- in other words, the data should be treated as unverified until you have sourced it thoroughly. Use the information as a guideline to locating other information. Even if the data is incorrect, make note of the locations and sources listed (if any) and use that to make a research plan of your own. For instance, if I had a World Family Tree that had my Abington, MA Benner birth information incorrect, I could make note of the locations listed for the family and check into town records to see if I couldn't locate the correct data myself.