Obitmichigan.com: Is It Worth The Hype?
Obitmichigan.com: Is It Worth The Hype? A Comprehensive Review
Finding accurate and up-to-date obituary information can be surprisingly challenging. Websites promising comprehensive Michigan obituary coverage often fall short. So, is obitmichigan.com worth the hype? Let's delve into this question, examining its features, limitations, and overall value for users seeking Michigan death notices.
What is obitmichigan.com?
Obitmichigan.com aims to be a central repository for obituaries published in Michigan newspapers and funeral homes. It aggregates information from various sources, aiming to provide a single, convenient location to search for deceased individuals in the state. The site boasts a user-friendly interface with a search bar allowing users to search by name, location, and date.
Strengths of obitmichigan.com:
- Wide Coverage (Claimed): The site claims to cover a vast number of Michigan newspapers and funeral homes. While verification of the exact number is difficult, anecdotal evidence suggests it does indeed include a significant portion of the state's obituary publications.
- Easy Navigation: The search functionality is relatively straightforward, allowing for quick searches based on key criteria. The layout is clean and easy to navigate, even for users unfamiliar with obituary websites.
- Free Access: Unlike some paid obituary services, obitmichigan.com provides its core search functionality free of charge. This makes it accessible to a broader audience.
Weaknesses of obitmichigan.com:
- Inconsistent Data: While aiming for comprehensive coverage, obitmichigan.com suffers from inconsistencies. Some obituaries may be missing, outdated, or lack crucial details. This inconsistency necessitates cross-referencing with other sources for confirmation.
- Lack of Advanced Search Filters: While the basic search function is adequate, more advanced filtering options (such as specific date ranges or cause of death – where legally available) would enhance the search experience and provide more targeted results.
- Dependence on Third-Party Sources: The accuracy and timeliness of obitmichigan.com rely heavily on the information provided by contributing funeral homes and newspapers. Delays or inaccuracies from these sources will directly impact the website's data.
Is it worth the hype? A balanced perspective:
Obitmichigan.com offers a valuable free service for those searching for Michigan obituaries. Its ease of use and (claimed) broad coverage make it a convenient starting point for your search. However, users should be aware of its limitations, particularly the inconsistencies in data completeness and accuracy. It's crucial to treat the information found on obitmichigan.com as a starting point and to verify the information found there through additional sources, such as the funeral home website or the newspaper's online archive. Don't rely solely on this site for critical information.
In conclusion, while obitmichigan.com isn't perfect, it's a useful tool that can save time and effort in your obituary search. Just remember to cross-check information for accuracy. Its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and tolerance for potential inaccuracies.