Genealogy Software
Some of the better software programs to help organize your tree
Most genealogy programs offer the same basic features, but you might need to shop around to find the one with the right bells and whistles for your research.
Even if you're a die-hard paper-pusher, you might have occasional need for a good genealogy or family tree software program. There are many good ones on the market, at varying price ranges. There are even some decent ones that you can download for free.
Most programs are generally the same in their basic use and function. It's the extras that make each stand apart, and the overall style of the interface. What might work really well for one person, might be annoying and awkward for someone else. Take advantage of the free trial offers that most programs have and give some of them a test run before making your decision.
These aren't reviews, just a summaries for the best programs available, so you can easily do a bit of your own research into all of their features. I haven't actually used these programs, except for RootsMagic.
RootsMagic - This is the program that I am currently using, and I'm pretty happy with it. It's easy to switch between family group pages and pedigree pages, so you can travel through your tree quickly. There are several chart and report options, including the tools to produce a complete book with your tree. You can manage your research with the logs and to-do lists, to keep you on track.
Legacy Family Tree - You can download the basic version at no cost, but many of the extras will be missing. Whether you will need the deluxe version will depend on your research needs. There are up to 5 different ways to view your family tree, and you can have 6 pedigree windows open at one time. There is even a research guidance tool, to help direct you in finding your missing data.
The Master Genealogist - This program may be a bit too much for your average amateur genealogist. It's more expensive, and offers so many features that it's a little tougher to learn and use. The silver edition is more for average user needs. The gold is for the more advanced genealogist. The interface is very customizable so you can make changes to suit your own needs. You can also import files from several other packages, without first having to create a GEDCOM file.
Family Tree Maker - One of the best features of FTM is that it is designed to integrate with the Ancestry.com website for easier online ancestor searches. It also offers extremely good tools for publishing your findings in book form. Other than that, it's got all the other basic features that a genealogy program should have.
Personal Ancestral File - I had to add one more free program. PAF is quite popular and widely used. The program is produced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It's a fairly basic and easy to use package, making it an excellent first choice for the new genealogist. You won't be able to publish a book with it, or create large multi-media files. But it can handle all your basic research and record keeping.
