Current and up to date Genealogy programmes recommended at present

[StevieSteve]

 I think most software companies have put a lot of work into trying to make sure they can import FTM files over the last six months.

However, importing from one dialect of GEDCOM to another  is not seamless so when you try out trial versions make sure you import the data using their instructions for an FTM import. Just opening up your file and expecting everything to be there will lead to disappointment.

[Historycat]

Thanks for your replies. I have purchased Family Historian after I downloaded the demos of both it and Roots magic.

I liked the look and feel of family historian and the wealth of features.  I also bought the book "Getting the most of.."

However I discovered when I imported my FTM files into the demo that RM included the media and sources but FH didn't (although I later found the sources!)  So what I did was to import my tree into RM  and then in to FH, as this seemed to result in the media being included.  Obviously something in the way the code was written.

I am now in the process of familarising myself with the full features of FH, as the demo was time limited, RM was feature limited.

So a huge thanks to everyone who took the time to comment!

[RJ_Paton]

If you go to the Family Historian User Group there are a number of threads about importing from FTM directly into Family Historian.

http://www.fhug.org.uk/

[Guy Etchells]

I use Brothers Keeper as my family history database.
It is fast, easy to use and updates are free.
http://www.bkwin.org/

In addition I use Treedraw to enable me to manipulate diagrams of my family trees.
http://treedraw.spansoft.org/

I have tried most family history programs and discarded most for a number of reasons but find the above two meet all my needs

Cheers
Guy

[candleflame]

That Treeview looks interesting . Anyone tried it yet?

[JayNQ]

Like Guy said, I also have been using Brothers Keeper for many years.  My IT savvy son checked out all the available programs at the time, and chose Brothers Keeper as the appropriate one for me both for ease of use for me and technology for him to maintain over time.  We both have had no reason to change.  Regularly updated as needed with more features developed over the time. Service and communication are great.  Best wishes.

[MaecW]

Like Guy and Jay, I have also used Brother's Keeper for many years and have found it able to meet all my needs. I have a relatively small main database (about 1000 people) but another member of my family with a 6000 plus base also operates happily with BK.
Also like Guy, who recommended it some time ago, I use Treedraw when I want to view a large visual tree.
Maec