Define the service menu
List the types of cases you accept, geographic or technical specialties, what you do not accept, and the expected deliverable for each service.
Define the customer
A DNA adoptee search, lineage-society application, estate research matter, and family-history narrative have different buyers, expectations, risks, and acquisition channels.
Model pricing and capacity
Estimate billable research time, reporting time, administration, taxes, software, subscriptions, travel, record fees, insurance if applicable, and the number of active cases you can responsibly manage.
Design one case workflow
Standardize intake, scope, payment, research planning, evidence capture, research logging, client communication, reporting, corrections, closure, and retention.
Plan trust-building marketing
Use educational content, professional profiles, referrals, reviews, speaking, society participation, and useful case examples rather than relying only on paid advertising.