Family Tree Software

[langwell]

I have version 11 of Family Tree Maker and think it is time for a change. I liked FTM because it was fairly simple to use. Do I try and upgrade or change to another? Would welcome any advice.
Langwell

[Pheno]

I upgrade FTM about every 5 or 6 years and am currently running FTM2017 - although it has been taken over by McKiev rather than Ancestry.

Although there are always tweaks to get used to I have never felt the need to change as it provides all that I need.

No doubt others will give you a different view.

Pheno

[langwell]

Thanks for reply.  I have notes, photos, etc on mine at moment. Will I lose them when I switch or does it automatically transfer everything.
langwell

[Pheno]

If you just upgrade your FTM all these things will be retained (well at least mine were).

I think you would need to export from your current FTM via gedcom to install to another software programme but don't think this retains all your attached media.

Somebody will come along shortly to advise.

Pheno

[langwell]

Thank you for your advice.
Langell

[jc26red]

First off, do a backup!

Usually when updating a software programme,you should be able to open a file created in previous versions of the programme and everything should be as you last used it. (Backward compatibility).

Not knowing FTM very well, it might react in the same way RootsMagic did when going from v6 - v7. It opened fine after doing a conversion but gave a warning that you would no longer be able to open the file in previous versions of the programme.... hence my warning at the top about doing a backup first.  Keep a check on the file properties to ensure all people, notes etc., transferred.
Photos and attachments will still reside in the same folder as before, only the link to them transfers with your FTM file.

Jenny

[langwell]

Having decided to stay with FTM any suggestions as to best place to purchase.
Langwell

[Mart 'n' Al]

Only change if you have a good reason for doing so. Does your current version either not work, or have some functionality missing that you require?

Martin

[langwell]

What I am using is an old version and newer versions seem to have more functions.
langwell