Re: Best genealogy software???

[Hugh Watkins]

Emily wrote:
> Hello, all.
>
> Before I enter tons of data in a genealogy database, I'd like to ask
> others who have actually used different types of software whether they
> have a preference. Money is not an issue... but I would like for it
> to be as user-friendly as possible (without sacrificing features), as
> well as flexible and compatible with other standard formats
> (importing, exporting, etc.).
>
> Any suggestions?

it depends what operating system you use
some old but excellent software is not compatible with Windows 7 for
example

If you are a Mormon you need compatibility with new FamilySearch and
Temple work - PAF is still a possibility

For ancestry.com or ancestry.co.uk Family Tree maker 2010 is highly
integrated

For one-name studies you need a database like Custodian but this can
not export a gedcom for sharing data with other enthusiasts

For organizing images and paper work you need a paperless office
program . . . . .

personally as a newbie I got FTM because it was the biggest box in the
computer store
and after many updates I stick with FTM16 running on WinXP sp3 now as a
Virtual Machine on Parallels on Mac OS on a MacBook Pro

equally important to me is sharing my data (without the living) on
WorldConnect and Genesreunited both of which facilitate contact with
unknown distant cousins

For UK genealogy rootsweb county lists are an essential tool too

Findmypast and a 1911 census subscription is also essential for England
and Wales or access at a library or archive

Hugh W

[J. Hugh Sullivan]

>Emily wrote:
>> Hello, all.
>>
>> Before I enter tons of data in a genealogy database, I'd like to ask
>> others who have actually used different types of software whether they
>> have a preference. Money is not an issue... but I would like for it
>> to be as user-friendly as possible (without sacrificing features), as
>> well as flexible and compatible with other standard formats
>> (importing, exporting, etc.).
>>
>> Any suggestions?

The best program is the one you choose after trying all of the
well-known ones and making your own decision.

In my opinion three programs are head and shoulders above all the rest
- Legacy, RootsMagic and The Master Genealogist. On the other hand
many people use the one I would not use if they paid me to - Family
Tree Maker. So, it's not really a matter of our opinion. it's what you
think.

Use reviews found on the Internet to determine which programs to try.
Look for the programs that have a free trial. Enter about 50 names
(several generations and families) into each one and give the
printouts a try.

Your opinion of what you like is better than our guess.

Hugh

[Wes Groleau]

Hugh Watkins wrote:
> equally important to me is sharing my data (without the living) on
> WorldConnect and Genesreunited both of which facilitate contact with
> unknown distant cousins

I "publish" on PhpGedView which not only allows sharing but
collaboration. I periodically extract a privatized GEDCOM
for WorldConnect. On WorldConnect, there is a blurb that
the full data is available on UniGen.us (for data on living,
must login and be a close relative)

--
Wes Groleau

Franco’s Statues Almost Gone
http://Ideas.Lang-Learn.us/russell?itemid=1011