amazon Family Tree Maker reviews
Introduction
Genealogy and the study of family history have fascinated individuals for centuries. With the advent of digital tools, the process of tracing one’s lineage has become more accessible and organized. Family Tree Maker (FTM), developed by Software MacKiev, is one of the most popular genealogy software programs available today. This review will delve into the features, usability, performance, and overall value of Family Tree Maker, providing an in-depth analysis of its strengths and weaknesses.
Overview of Family Tree Maker
Family Tree Maker is a desktop genealogy software that helps users create detailed family trees, manage genealogical data, and conduct research. It offers powerful tools for both amateur and professional genealogists, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. The software is available for both Windows and Mac platforms, ensuring broad accessibility.
Key Features
- Tree Sync: This feature allows users to sync their family trees between Family Tree Maker and Ancestry.com, ensuring that updates made on one platform are reflected on the other.
- Hints and Search: Family Tree Maker provides hints and search tools to help users find records and sources related to their ancestors. This is integrated with major genealogy databases like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.
- Media Management: Users can attach photos, documents, and other media files to their family tree entries, helping to create a rich, multimedia family history.
- Charts and Reports: The software offers a variety of chart and report options, allowing users to visualize and print their family trees in different formats.
- Mapping: Family Tree Maker includes a mapping feature that plots ancestral locations, providing a geographic perspective on family history.
- Data Management: Robust data management tools help users handle large volumes of genealogical data, including custom facts and notes.
- Collaboration Tools: Users can share their trees and collaborate with others, making it easier to gather information from relatives and fellow genealogists.
Usability
User Interface
Family Tree Maker’s user interface is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. The main screen is divided into sections that provide easy access to the tree view, person view, and hints. The navigation is straightforward, with clear menus and toolbars that guide users through various tasks. For those new to genealogy software, the interface minimizes the learning curve, allowing users to start building their family trees with minimal effort.
Learning Curve
The learning curve for Family Tree Maker is relatively gentle, thanks to the intuitive design and extensive help resources. New users can take advantage of tutorials, webinars, and user guides that cover all aspects of the software. Additionally, the integration with Ancestry.com provides a wealth of online resources and community support, further easing the process of learning the software.
Performance
Speed and Reliability
Family Tree Maker performs reliably, even with large family trees containing thousands of entries. The software handles data entry and media attachments smoothly, with minimal lag. Syncing with Ancestry.com is generally quick and efficient, although the speed can vary depending on the size of the tree and the speed of the internet connection.
Quality of Output
The quality of the output generated by Family Tree Maker is impressive. Charts and reports are customizable and can be tailored to meet specific needs. The media management tools ensure that photos and documents are displayed clearly, enhancing the overall presentation of the family tree.
Features in Detail
Tree Sync
Tree Sync is one of Family Tree Maker’s most powerful features, allowing users to sync their family tree data between the software and their online Ancestry.com account. This two-way synchronization ensures that updates made on either platform are mirrored on the other, providing a seamless experience for users who prefer to work both online and offline.
The synchronization process is straightforward. Users can choose to sync their entire tree or select specific parts. The software also provides conflict resolution options, allowing users to choose which version of the data to keep when discrepancies arise. This feature is invaluable for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the family tree data.
Hints and Search
Family Tree Maker’s hints and search features are integrated with major genealogical databases, including Ancestry.com and FamilySearch. The software automatically generates hints for possible matches in these databases based on the information entered in the family tree. These hints can include historical records, census data, and other sources that may provide additional insights into an ancestor’s life.
The search feature allows users to actively search for records across multiple databases without leaving the software. This integration streamlines the research process, making it easier to gather and verify information.
Media Management
Media management is a crucial aspect of Family Tree Maker. The software allows users to attach various media files to their family tree entries, including photos, documents, and audio recordings. These media files can be tagged and categorized, making them easy to organize and retrieve.
Family Tree Maker also includes tools for editing and enhancing photos, such as cropping, rotating, and adjusting brightness and contrast. This ensures that media files are presented in the best possible quality.
Charts and Reports
Family Tree Maker offers a wide range of charts and reports that can be customized to meet specific needs. These include pedigree charts, descendant charts, timeline charts, and family group sheets. Users can choose from various styles and formats, and customize the content and appearance of the charts.
The reports generated by Family Tree Maker are detailed and professional-looking. Users can create narrative reports that provide a comprehensive history of their family, complete with footnotes and citations. These reports can be exported in various formats, including PDF and RTF, making them easy to share and print.
Mapping
The mapping feature in Family Tree Maker provides a geographic perspective on family history. Users can plot ancestral locations on a map, showing migration patterns and geographical connections. This feature is particularly useful for visualizing the movements of ancestors over time and understanding the historical context of their lives.
The maps are interactive, allowing users to zoom in and out and view details about specific locations. Users can also customize the map markers and add notes to provide additional context.
Data Management
Family Tree Maker includes robust data management tools that help users handle large volumes of genealogical data. Users can enter detailed information about each family member, including birth, marriage, and death dates, as well as custom facts and notes.
The software also includes tools for managing sources and citations, ensuring that all information is properly documented and verified. This is crucial for maintaining the accuracy and credibility of the family tree.
Collaboration Tools
Family Tree Maker makes it easy to share and collaborate on family trees. Users can export their trees in various formats, including GEDCOM, and share them with others. The software also supports direct sharing via email and social media.
The collaboration tools are particularly useful for gathering information from relatives and fellow genealogists. Users can invite others to view and contribute to their family tree, making it a collaborative project.
Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Software MacKiev provides robust customer support for Family Tree Maker. Users can access support via email, phone, or live chat. The support team is responsive and knowledgeable, providing prompt and helpful assistance.
Learning Resources
Family Tree Maker offers extensive learning resources to help users get the most out of the software. These resources include:
- Tutorials: Step-by-step tutorials covering all aspects of the software.
- Webinars: Live and recorded webinars on various topics related to genealogy and the use of Family Tree Maker.
- User Guides: Comprehensive user guides that provide detailed information about the software’s features and functions.
- Knowledge Base: A comprehensive knowledge base with articles, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips.
- Community Forum: An active community forum where users can ask questions, share tips, and connect with other Family Tree Maker users.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Ease of Use: Family Tree Maker is easy to use, with an intuitive interface and extensive help resources that minimize the learning curve.
- Tree Sync: The Tree Sync feature provides seamless synchronization between Family Tree Maker and Ancestry.com, ensuring that updates are reflected across both platforms.
- Comprehensive Features: The software offers a wide range of features, including hints and search tools, media management, and customizable charts and reports.
- High-Quality Output: The charts, reports, and media presentations generated by Family Tree Maker are professional-looking and detailed.
- Strong Customer Support: Responsive and knowledgeable customer support enhances the overall user experience.
Weaknesses
- Cost: Family Tree Maker is a premium software, and the cost may be a consideration for some users, especially those who are not avid genealogists.
- Dependence on Ancestry.com: While the Tree Sync feature is powerful, it requires an Ancestry.com subscription to fully utilize. This dependency may be a limitation for users who do not wish to subscribe to Ancestry.com.
- Limited Mobile Access: Family Tree Maker is primarily a desktop software, and while it has some mobile capabilities through Ancestry.com, it lacks a dedicated mobile app for on-the-go access.
Use Cases
Amateur Genealogists
Family Tree Maker is an excellent tool for amateur genealogists who are just starting their journey into family history research. The intuitive interface and extensive help resources make it easy for beginners to create and manage their family trees. The hints and search features also provide valuable assistance in finding records and sources.
Professional Genealogists
Professional genealogists will appreciate the comprehensive features and robust data management tools offered by Family Tree Maker. The software’s ability to handle large volumes of data, generate detailed reports, and sync with Ancestry.com makes it a powerful tool for professional use. The collaboration tools also make it easier to work with clients and other researchers.
Family Historians
Family historians who want to create a rich, multimedia family history will find Family Tree Maker to be a valuable asset. The software’s media management features allow users to attach and organize photos, documents, and other media files, creating a vivid and detailed family history. The ability to generate narrative reports and customizable charts helps in presenting the family story in a compelling and professional manner.
Educators
Educators teaching genealogy or family history courses can utilize Family Tree Maker to demonstrate the processes and techniques involved in genealogical research. The software’s intuitive interface and comprehensive features provide an excellent platform for students to learn and apply genealogical methods. Additionally, the collaboration tools enable group projects and peer review exercises.
Researchers and Historians
Researchers and historians who focus on family history as part of their broader historical studies will find Family Tree Maker’s robust data management and source citation tools particularly useful. The software’s ability to integrate with major genealogical databases and its comprehensive mapping features also provide valuable resources for conducting thorough historical research.
Comparison with Competitors
Legacy Family Tree
Legacy Family Tree is another popular genealogy software. While it offers a wide range of features similar to Family Tree Maker, it lacks the seamless integration with Ancestry.com’s extensive database. Legacy Family Tree is known for its strong reporting capabilities and is often favored by users who need advanced reporting options. However, Family Tree Maker’s user-friendly interface and media management features make it a more versatile option for a wider audience.
RootsMagic
RootsMagic is a highly regarded genealogy software that offers robust data management tools and integration with multiple genealogy websites, including Ancestry.com and FamilySearch. RootsMagic is known for its ease of use and comprehensive feature set, making it a strong competitor to Family Tree Maker. However, Family Tree Maker’s superior media management and Tree Sync capabilities provide an edge for users who prioritize multimedia and seamless data synchronization.
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder is another powerful genealogy software that integrates with the MyHeritage website. It offers a free version with basic features and a premium version with advanced tools. MyHeritage’s global reach and large user base make it a strong competitor. However, Family Tree Maker’s integration with Ancestry.com and its advanced media management tools make it a more comprehensive option for users who require a full-featured desktop application.
Conclusion
Family Tree Maker is a powerful and versatile genealogy software that caters to a wide range of users, from amateur genealogists to professional researchers. Its seamless integration with Ancestry.com, robust media management, and comprehensive feature set make it a valuable tool for creating detailed and engaging family histories.
Table of Contents
Overall Value
Family Tree Maker offers substantial value, particularly for those who are serious about genealogical research and family history. The software’s strengths lie in its ease of use, comprehensive features, and high-quality output. Its extensive publishing options and collaboration tools further enhance its utility and reach.
User-Friendly Interface
The intuitive design and integration with PowerPoint (for charts and reports) ensure a minimal learning curve, allowing users to start building their family trees with ease. The interface is well-organized, providing easy access to the software’s powerful features.
Comprehensive Features
From Tree Sync and hints to media management and mapping, Family Tree Maker offers a wide range of features that cater to different aspects of genealogical research. The quality of these features, combined with the ability to publish content in various formats, ensures that users can create professional-grade family histories.
Support and Resources
The robust customer support and extensive learning resources provided by Software MacKiev further enhance the software’s value. Users have access to a wealth of tutorials, webinars, and knowledgeable support staff, ensuring that any issues or questions can be promptly addressed.
Cost Consideration
While Family Tree Maker is priced higher than some basic genealogy tools, the robust feature set and high-quality output justify the investment for many users. Organizations and individuals focused on delivering high-quality, interactive family histories will find that the benefits of using Family Tree Maker outweigh the costs.
Future Developments
As the field of genealogy continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Software MacKiev enhances Family Tree Maker to meet new demands and incorporate emerging technologies. Potential areas for future development could include:
- Enhanced Mobile Capabilities: Improving mobile access and developing a dedicated mobile app for on-the-go genealogical research and data entry.
- Advanced DNA Integration: Incorporating more advanced DNA analysis and integration tools to connect genetic data with family trees.
- Artificial Intelligence: Leveraging AI to provide personalized research suggestions, automate data entry, and analyze historical patterns.
- Virtual Reality: Incorporating VR capabilities to create immersive family history experiences, such as virtual tours of ancestral locations.
Recommendations
For prospective users considering Family Tree Maker, the following recommendations may help in making an informed decision:
- Assess Your Needs: Determine your specific genealogical needs and compare Family Tree Maker’s features with other available options.
- Utilize the Free Trial: Take advantage of the free trial to explore the software’s capabilities and ensure it meets your requirements.
- Leverage Learning Resources: Make full use of the tutorials, webinars, and support offered by Software MacKiev to maximize your proficiency with the software.
- Consider Long-Term Use: Evaluate the potential for future needs and how Family Tree Maker fits into your long-term genealogical research strategy.
Final Thoughts
Family Tree Maker stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly genealogy software that offers a balance of powerful features and ease of use. Its seamless integration with Ancestry.com, robust media management, and comprehensive chart and report options make it a valuable tool for genealogists of all levels.
By addressing both current needs and potential future developments, Family Tree Maker demonstrates a commitment to providing a versatile and robust solution for genealogical research. Its comprehensive support and resources further enhance its value, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to create detailed and engaging family histories.
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Family Tree Maker: Buy it now
