The Seven Pillars

The Guild of One-Name Studies defines seven pillars that form the
framework of a well-rounded One-Name Study. Together they describe
not just the collection of data, but everything that should be done
with it — from analysis and publication through to ensuring the study
survives its founder.

The Gray One-Name Study addresses each of the seven pillars to
varying degrees. Some are well developed; others remain work in
progress. This section sets out what has been achieved under each
pillar and what is still to come.

The Seven Pillars

• Data Collection — the records and sources used to build the study database, including census records, parish registers, GRO indices and DNA testing.
• Analysis — examining the data to identify patterns in distribution, frequency, forenames and mortality.
• Synthesis — drawing together the findings from analysis into broader conclusions about the Gray and Grey name.
• Publicising — making the study known to those who might benefit from it or contribute to it.
• Responding — answering enquiries from people researching their Gray and Grey family lines.
• Publication — presenting the results of the study in a form that others can access and use.
• Preservation — ensuring the study and its data survive long term, beyond the lifetime of the current researcher.