Mar 03, 2015 Genealogy is an increasingly popular hobby, and there's a large selection of family tree building and research software from which you can choose. I have a MacBook Air and an iPhone 7. I'm looking for recommendations on the best genealogy software, primarily for my Mac, but having a mobile app is definitely a bonus. I'd like one that allows edits to multiple records at once and doesn't feel like I'm on a 1990's program.
What genealogy software is available?
The various genealogy programmes available are all suitable for people new to family history but in addition, most are complex software capable of advanced research projects too.
Most programs allow you to create a digital family tree and reports as well as adding notes, digitised photos, documents and often, audio and video clips too. Most have the facility to set yourself reminders and create to-do lists. There are programs for PC, Mac, Linux, and for use from the cloud too.
Some of the programs will allow you to search the major databases (often via a subscription) for further information to add to your research. Some will allow you to sync your research so that you can have it on your computer and also added to the cloud or an associated app. This can be useful, enabling you to access your research on your smartphone whilst you’re out and about.
Current major family history software programs include:
Family Historian
Family Tree Maker
Legacy Family Tree
RootsMagic
Tree View
Reunion (Mac)
Questions to ask before making your choice
It’s very hard to decide what software is best for someone else, so it’s worthwhile exploring the various options, using the list below to help you narrow things down. If you find the software that works for you it could be an essential part of your research for years to come, so take the time to think about what you need.
Ask yourself:
What sort of family tree chart displays and range of reports can the programme create?
Does it allow you to add notes, documents, photos, multimedia and sources?
Does it have GEDcom import and export? This is important, as it means that you can share your research with fellow members and can more readily transfer your research to another programme or website
Does it allow you to search your preferred subscription website from the software?
Are there any free or cost-effective family history programs?
Certainly! A number of them offer cut-down versions; while they don’t offer access to all the tools in the program, they can be used on a permanent basis effectively.
Other programs offer a time-limited trial so it’s worth looking around and having a play around with the various options out there before deciding which one to buy.
For cut-down free versions, see Lecacy Family Tree Standard, RootsMagic Essentials and TreeView Lite.
In addition, many of the major data websites (Ancestry, FamilySearch, FindMyPast and MyHeritage) provide online family tree builders to which you can add your information. Plus, there are additional stand alone online family tree builders, such as Famberry and TribalPages.
QUICK LINK:Five family history hacks that will save you time
Part 1
1. MacFamily TreeFeatures and functions:
· This is efficient free genealogy software for Mac which not only lets you create family trees but also search online for family history.
· It gives 3D representation of your family tree and has a slick interface.
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· It also allows you to publish your family tree on the web with iCloud.
Pros of MacFamily tree
· The software makes it very easy to build family trees and has a clean interface.
· It enables you to search for your family history and trace lineage online and this is one of its best feature.
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· You can also publish or post the family tree online and share it with your other family members.
Cons of MacFamily tree
· MacFamily tree tends to struggle when used with large files and this is one of its negative points.
· It doesn’t offer the search or interaction possibilities the way other such programs do.
· It can prove to be very buggy.
User comments/reviews:
1. I am a bit of a beginner and found it a little hard at the start but didn't have any problem importing a GEDCOM of a family tree.
2. Generally easy to use. Visually pleasing interface.
3. Very nice visually, easy to use. Can support large number of entry.
http://macfamilytree.en.softonic.com/mac