DNA testing has become a very popular addition to genealogy research. As the number of people with DNA profiles increases, technology advances and allows us to look at DNA matches in very technical ways. One method to better understand our matches is by using triangulation techniques. Triangulation refers to matches with whom we share matches. Person A shares a match with person B and person C. Person C shares a match with A and B. Person B shares a match with A and C. This is a triangulation. Raw DNA data helps us see the length of DNA strands we share with our matches (in centimorgans), which specific chromosomes we match on (1-23), and allows us to see others we have in common (whose DNA overlaps on a specific chromosome). Double Match Triangulation was developed by Louis Kessler (Behold Genealogy). This tool helps us with looking at all of our triangulated matches. Using this tool we should be able to better determine which matches are maternal/paternal, identify those who share chromosome segments which may come from specific ancestors, and which part of our DNA segments might come from a specific ancestor.
In order to use this tool, we must have the raw DNA data from our testing company. Ancestry.com does not provide the detailed information needed to use this tool; however, Ancestry.com does allow you to download your raw data. This file can then be uploaded into GedMatch.com, FamilyTreeDNA.com, or MyHeritage.com, for free. Once you have created an account with Gedmatch.com, you can begin using the methodology developed by Mr. Kessler.
Yesterday, I designed an Access Database, which will allow me to import my data (no data entry) so I can begin looking at my DNA matches with this technology. I will keep you posted on my progress. Let the fun begin!