I need some advice on choosing a Family History Program

[Amy K]

Just curious, as I am considering splashing out and spoiling myself.

Which programs do rootschatters use to store their family tree? 

Up until now I have been using PAF, purely because it is free, although I did get a copy of PAF Companion too. However, I realise this program may have its limitations. Can anyone recommend a better program?

[madbadrob]

To be fair your now asking the impossible to answer with causing a fight question.  We all get used to one or the other program because it suits our needs or because it was the first we had and we like it.  I use Family Origins which is now packaged under another name ( no idea what ) I find it easy and good for storage but others will say PAF some will say generations etc all because its what they use.  Stick with what you know and like is my advice

rob

[Reggie]

I have used several genealogy programs including Legacy (a limited edition is free) and, which I found to be very easy to use but has limitations. You can find it at http://www.legacyfamilytree.com/

I have also used Brothers Keeper (it is free) and it is somewhat poor but useful for someone who can use it as a start. 

The best of course is The Master Genealogist (TMG).  I have been using it for a number of years now.  It has great features and flexibility.  You can find them at http://www.whollygenes.com and they have a forum (like this site) at http://www.whollygenes.com/forums/.  As the previous person said you can get into fights about the best one to use but that is up to the individual. 

I thought PAF was discontinued and they were now going over to Legacy.

I suggest you look around before you make a decision.

Hope this helps.

Reg

[EmPers]

I use Excel, complete freedom over the design of the tree, and less problems distributing to the family.

[Kazza]

Hi Amy,

Rob is right on this one,  we all have our favourites.  We have covered this topic a couple of times:

http://www.rootschat.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=7110.0
http://www.rootschat.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=5441.0
http://www.rootschat.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=3716.0

these threads give you the idea.   

Kazza.

[madbadrob]

Oh dear I have done something totally wrong.  I have gotten a moderator to agree with me ......hmmmm Ok folks dont worry normal service will resume must remember to put the pounds in the meter more often heheheheh

rob

[madbadrob]

On a more serious note the only thing i would say your program should have is the ability to export and import Gedcom.  These have been something I couldn't have doen without and just to say Excell isn't always the best as many people prefer works to office and vice versa so if they dont have those how can they read them?  Just a thought.  Please no replies saying but you can download a viewer because I have a ready reply to that lol

[EmPers]

Works can open Excel files And you can also get a programmes to allow you to save them as an acrobat file, which is very universal.

That being said, I have started using Legacy on the side, acting as a store for possible information I'm not certain about yet. The main reason I like Excel is that I don't like the trees any of the purpose designed ones produce,

[kiya]

I use Family Historian.  Although it was quite expensive, it was definately worth it from my pov anyway.

I used to use Excel though - it's very easy to use and you're in complete control of the design.  Excel can also be used very much like Access, but without all the hassle as the programming is much simpler.  I just found with Excel that linking all my information was causing problems and Family Historian has certainly solved those!