The original map and the format in which it is stored by the PRO determine the choice of method for tithe maps. The maps are available in two forms to readers at the PRO (IR30).The original maps can be viewed in the reading room at the PRO and copies of some maps are available on microfilm. The coverage of maps on microfilm by the PRO is patchy. Local record offices, in addition, also provide original copies and sometimes photocopies of the maps.

The most desirable option of data capture would be digitising from the original. This is impossible for various reasons. The maps cannot be removed form the PRO and no digitising facilities are available there. It has to be considered that these maps are up to 164 years old at the time of writing (2001) and possibly in a quite fragile condition. Indeed, the maps of Orford and Sudbourne, both in Suffolk are in a bad state, with severe cracks running through the maps and parts flaking off. Fortunately, the maps were forwarded to the conservation department at the PRO after the conclusion of the data capture for this study. The original maps can also be very large, up to 10 m?.

Digitising of copies of maps is an alternative, as the PRO provides a copying service. However, copying is also dependent on the state the maps and copies of maps, especially large ones, can only be made at considerable expense to the reader. Making one's own copies by tracing is a tedious method and also dependent on the state of the map.