Research methodology

Evidence before interpretation

WNYAtlas includes what is supported by identifiable records, clearly labels uncertainty, and distinguishes proximity or visual context from proof of contamination, exposure, or causation. Readers can follow meaningful claims back to cited sources.

Research transparency

WNYAtlas is human-directed and human-structured. AI tools assist with locating, organizing, and summarizing research, and they can make mistakes. Every published place record is reviewed by a person; readers should follow the cited primary sources before relying on a claim.

This is a living public-history project. Documented corrections and stronger evidence are welcomed and incorporated as the Atlas improves.

Evidence stages

Documented records have a developed source trail. Research in progress records have meaningful evidence with material questions still open. Research leads preserve promising, explicitly provisional directions for further work.