We’ve already told you about best free website builders and this time we will tell you about best family tree builders. Family Tree building software help in researching family history, building a tree for your own family, adding photos, date of birth related information, important events and historical records . Almost all such software is hosted on the internet and support a lot of useful functionality including the ability to match your family tree to information about relatives from millions of other family trees. Most of such family tree builder software also includes extensive charting capability and advanced record matching technology which can help you connect to the historical records pertaining to your ancestors.
RootsMagic Essentials is a free genealogy program that contains many core features from the award-winning RootsMagic family tree software. Downloading RootsMagic Essentials is absolutely free and is the easiest way to start tracing your family tree! I’ve owned most of the popular Mac genealogy programs and am blown away by MFT. It’s by far the best, most flexible and easy to use app I’ve had. Great product and outstanding support.
These programs also provide excellent private site functionality which gives you the ability to update your family history, data and events in a secure way on your personal site. Providing privacy settings at a granular level, these sites enable you to update and use sensitive family data in a safe manner. These sites also provide very easy to use import functionality which can help. These family tree builders can be particularly a great aid for those looking for information related to family lineage. Genealogy software reviews enable you to choose the right one so that you can seek information related to where their ancestors came from and their lineage.
How to create a family tree – Online or Offline?
The first step in creating a family tree is to do the due research into your ancestry in order to find out who should be included. You then create a diagram for each generation in order to create the first version of your family tree. There are two types of genealogy software providers – Online and offline.
Family Tree Program Dallas
Offline Genealogy Software
Offline family tree software, also known as desktop family tree software, operates on the device of your choice but does not require an Internet connection. You are able to save all your personal information offline and organize it the way you want, either on your own computer or any device. This means unless you decide to export part of or the entirety of your data from the program or share your data file with a different user, nobody else can gain access to your details. You can share data selectively, meaning you get to choose the families or individuals to export. Thus, your data remains confidential, especially that involving living people. Many offline software programs enable you to choose a section of the existing database, and save it as a different file. The best part is no operation involves online sharing of information. Most of the available desktop family tree software are download-only. This means that you get limited amount of guidance, and usually have to resort to external online source.
Legacy Family Tree
[ create a family tree ]
This desktop genealogy program helps create interesting reports and charts that enable you to visualize your entire family tree. You can share what you’ve discovered through your research efforts with others. This software has various tools that assist with researching, organizing, and charting your family tree. The program has an in-built browser to help to assist you in research more about your family online directly using the software. This means when you get new details, you are able to import the information directly to your genealogy tree maker. Once you collect all the information and family records, you’re able to choose the type of chart you wish to display your information on out of 25 separate chart designs and 20 different reports. You can use Legacy for the offline export and import GEDCOM files quickly. You are able to sync family trees to the Internet, and create whole web pages for displaying the family history. You can choose between HTML-based or Java-based pages. However, you can create both easily using a couple of clicks.
The software interface is clean and easy-to-use. You have no trouble finding suitable tools, and the toolbar and ribbon menu can be customized for quick access to the most-used features.
Multiple types of marriages are on display along with more complex details. Media and notes can be added regarding individuals. You can easily check for time gaps, duplicate entries, and other significant problems. There are several tools for recording the significant milestones in your ancestor’s life based on records. You get a lot of information from reports like the origins report. This indicates the percentage of blood present from every country of your origin. Information can be collected from relatives through interview notes, questionnaires, and research logs. These also help track your progress. The formats and fonts can be customized, and you can maintain records of where and how you got your sources. Legacy family tree software is extremely simple in terms of operation, and even if you have any doubts, they are easily answered in the FAQ section. Extra resources are available online. Simple video tutorials are also present, providing step-by-step instructions on using the program.
Family Historian
[ create a family tree ]
Family Historian is a family tree builder that assists you in your family tree building activities thanks to excellent accuracy scores, simple data entry methods, web-assisted features, and paperless charting. It might lack some features, like charting, but this software shines in terms of its accuracy and ease-of-use.
This software features an in-app browser and a web search windows that enables you to search through genealogy websites via the software. Since the browser is focused in the program itself, all your work remains centralized and focused. Online research leads are no longer difficult to find thanks to a handy web hint tool. Family Historian supports GEDCOM files and allows you to import family connections and individual details without the risk of errors.
Adding new relationships is a breeze thanks to this software. A world map shows any location linked to people and events. The software shines in the field of paperless charting. Sources can be easily added to Family Historian, and you are able to view every one of your linked media and individuals in a single window. You will not face any trouble figuring out how to operate Family Historian. In case of any questions on family history research, you are free to consult online resources or printed materials. Aside from email support, the FAQs section helps you understand the different functions and tabs within the program.
Online Family Tree Builders
Online software forms the backbone of the current online genealogy trend. They provide the necessary support when you are interested in producing and publishing your own genealogy website, complete with any first-hand evidence about your family. Online software allows you to upload evidence gathered through different websites/blogs belonging to someone else, or any of the excellent ancestry websites scattered throughout the Internet. You can also use online genealogy software providers to correct and comment on your family tree anytime you are online. You need to maintain backup your files every time you sync your family tree. Also, you can never update both the offline and online family tree files at the same time, as it often leads to the loss of research from any one or both of them during the syncing process.
Family Tree Maker
[ create a family tree ]
Family Tree Maker software comes with a clean, simple interface jam-packed with features that allow you to locate and store numerous family members. The software generates web hints for people in your database whenever it finds similar or matching data around the web. You can access records, such as marriage and military documents, censes, old school and yearbook photos.
You can import GEDCOM files into the program without any hassle. Text fields are auto-populated and no editing is required. This software allows you to enter details directly into your genealogy tree maker. Family tree lists are available in a pedigree format, so that it is easier to enter information and maintain a timeline of the generations. Each person’s data can be customized as required. Complex relationships like stepchildren and remarriages also find a place in this family tree software. This genealogy tree maker software lets you access a physical map showcasing the origins and migrations of your ancestors. The more detailed your pedigree charts are, the more places will be pinpointed on the map. The program notifies you if any information is wrongly entered. Same gender marriages can also be entered into this program.
You can import GEDCOM files into the program without any hassle. Text fields are auto-populated and no editing is required. This software allows you to enter details directly into your genealogy tree maker. Family tree lists are available in a pedigree format, so that it is easier to enter information and maintain a timeline of the generations. Each person’s data can be customized as required. Complex relationships like stepchildren and remarriages also find a place in this family tree software. This genealogy tree maker software lets you access a physical map showcasing the origins and migrations of your ancestors. The more detailed your pedigree charts are, the more places will be pinpointed on the map. The program notifies you if any information is wrongly entered. Same gender marriages can also be entered into this program.
Best Family Tree Software For Mac
Adding source data, such as publishing info, author, and title, will allow Family Tree Maker to create a complete bibliography for you. Task lists can be created and your research organized as per individual, priority, and type. Family Tree Maker is supported via email and phone. Both printed and online user guides and articles can help you get accustomed to this software. The FAQ section is helpful if you wish to find some quick answers to common issues.
OneGreatFamily
[ create a family tree ]
OneGreatFamily is the perfect software for genealogists wanting to report their connections and link families together, with a little help from an active user community. Using this program, you can learn more about your family history in the United States and in other countries. This software aims to reconstruct the family tree of every single person in the world. The reason why this family tree software works differently from others and has a unique structure is because it serves as a cooperative research project. You not only benefit off this software’s users but can contribute your own discoveries as well. Family trees from around the world come together as one to form one big, interconnected family tree.
Any new information has to pass muster. No conflicting information is allowed, nor is useless data. This fact-checking might be tedious but it actually provides a reliable research source. Any research you’ve gathered regarding your family needs to be entered so that the site validates this information.
This software is great when you want verified information regarding your family and the connections you share with others. The tools section of this online genealogy tree maker software offers additional resources not present on the site database, like a surname index.
MyHeritage
[ create a family tree ]
When it comes to online genealogy search engines, it does not get better than MyHeritage software. This freeware family tree software allows you to go through countless documents, interact with other genealogists, and create your family tree. Its meticulous records and widespread network allow you to uncover your family history. There are thousands and thousands of searchable records in their database, covering every country, with some even dating back to the last millennium. The site is extremely easy to navigate and features a host of great tools like MyHeritage family tree builder, DNA testing, and a custom chart maker.
Once you find a document connected to your ancestors, you’re able to view it and then download the original file. There’s a full-screen mode to give you a closer look at historical records. Searching for different family members through documents is easy with this program. The centralized dashboard on the MyHeritage family tree builder provides access to a wealth of information, including family trees, photos, charts, DNA testing, and contact details. Family hints are available, matching members of your family tree against its database.
Your family tree comes to life with media and photos. The program allows you to print out customizable charts.
This freeware family tree software is very easy to use but in case of any query, you can resort to telephone calls, emails, tutorials, and FAQs. It might not be easy to conduct research with this program though due to the lack of any kind of professional assistance. The only help you can get here are some community features, such as the message boards. However, the MyHeritage family tree builder is going to direct you towards a professional genealogy research service.
The aforementioned offline and online programs are a genealogist’s best friend. With varying features and an expensive community, these tools help you build a comprehensive family tree.
Looking for new apps to boost genealogy productivity on your iPad? This list of apps includes everything from genealogy iPad apps which work with popular genealogy software, to apps for better searching and apps to boost your productivity as a mobile genealogist. Unless the genealogy app is indicated as Free, there is a cost involved ranging from $0.99 to $14.99.
Ancestry
Take Your Ancestry Family Tree on the Go
This free genealogy app offers Ancestry.com members the tools to create, maintain and share a multi-generation family tree – including the ability to organize photos and document scans, and add stories, journal entries and other info. You can view and edit your own Ancestry family tree, start a new tree directly from the app, or view other family trees that people have shared with you. Ancestry.com membership is not required to use this free app, but if you want to search their genealogy databases or attach digital documents from their Web site you will need to purchase a subscription. Free!
DropBox
Store, Sync and Share Documents
DropBox is a tool I couldn't live without. Whether it is getting a large folder of document images to a client, backing up my most important files and photos, or accessing my genealogy research notes on the road, DropBox makes it easy to store, sync and share photos, docs and videos. It's also a great way of getting files to and from your iPad. The free Dropbox account comes with 2GB of space that you can use for as long as you like. Pro plans for a monthly fee offer up to 100GB. Have DropBox and want to learn how to better use it? Legacy Family tree has an archived webinar by Thomas MacEntee available for purchase on CD; titled DropBox for Genealogists, it includes both the webinar and 18 pages of handouts.
EverNote
Save and store notes anywhere
Instead of scribbling notes on napkins, receipts or other scraps you have handy, this free online note service allows you to type and store a variety of material. This includes audio notes which are great for impromptu family history interviews, and even photos taken to jog your memory of something. Evernote will sync your notes to your laptop, desktop and iPhone or Android smartphone - keeping your genealogy notes in sync and handy no matter where you are. Notes are even geo-coded for mapping and search. Free!
Families
For users of Legacy Family Tree
Families for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch operates in conjunction with Legacy Family Tree genealogy software for Windows. Legacy family files can be easily transferred to your iPad enabling them to be viewed and edited wherever you are, and the app includes full-screen iPad support. Requires a free companion program on your computer, Families Sync, to get files to and from your iPad, along with a wifi connection or iTunes.
FamViewer
View and edit GEDCOM files
If your favorite genealogy software program doesn't yet offer an iPad app, then FamViewer may be the answer.This fairly full-featured genealogy app lets you read, view and edit GEDCOM files. FamViewer has more features than GedView (see below), especially in regarding to viewing and editing notes, sources and multimedia files, but it is also more than twice the price.
GedView
Another app for GEDCOM viewingGedView reads any GEDCOM file and displays the information in easy to browse format. Data can be browsed via either a surname or family index. Available for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad, with automatic screen resolution adjustment for the appropriate device.
GoodReader
Read, organize and access documents
GoodReader is a true workhorse app, allowing you to open and read documents in a variety of formats, including pdf, word, excel, jpegs, even video files; annotate PDF files with typed text, underlines, highlights, comments and free-form drawings; and download and upload your documents, plus autosync to iDisk, Dropbox, SugarSync or any WebDAV or FTP server. Great for bookmarking favorite genealogy sites too. If you want just one app for reading, storing and marking up documents, then GoodReader does a little bit of everything well. It doesn't always play nice with other iPad apps, however.
iAnnotate
Annotate PDF files
I love GoodReader for viewing and organizing PDF files, but for annotating, highlighting, etc. I love using iAnnotate PDF. You can mark up text and add comments and notes to your hearts content including highlight, strikethrough, stamp, and underline by just dragging your finger. It even allows you to sketch diagrams, add in arrows, or other free-form drawing. iAnnotate PDF, which opens documents from email, your computer, the Web and DropBox, also allows you to fill-in forms and fully integrates its annotations directly into the PDF such that they will be available to any standard PDF readers like Adobe Reader or Preview, or you can save your annotated PDF in 'flattened' format. Tabbed PDF reading allows you to switch easily between multiple open documents. PDF Expert is a similar application so you may want to check it out as well before purchase.
Popplet
Brainstorm Your Family Research
If you like creative brainstorming and mindmapping, then the new Popplet app for iPad may be right up your alley. Jot down notes, create diagrams, and brainstorm ideas via linked pop-up bubbles, adding text, sketches, photos, and colors to each bubble. This isn't for everyone, but some may find it a fun way to brainstorm their genealogy conundrums as they research. Popplet Lite is free, but the full app includes more features.
Puffin
View Flash-based digital images on FamilySearch
One of the things that bothered me most about traveling with my iPad was the difficulty I had searching and viewing digital images on sites that incorporate Flash such as FamilySearch.org. Puffin, an inexpensive app available for iPhone, iPod and iPad, not only runs most Flash-based Web sites, but most importantly (at least to me) handles the digital images on FamilySearch.org.
Reunion
Reunion on the Road
If you're a user of the Mac-based Reunion genelaogy software, this app lets you take your family tree with you; names, events, facts notes, logs, sources and photos. You can browse, view, navigate, search, and edit your information on the go, including adding new people, documenting new information, even correcting data. You can then sync the changes with your Reunion family file on the Mac. The Reunion for iPad app offers additional features above and beyond the Reunion iPhone app. To use the Reunion for iPad app, you must have Reunion 9.0c installed on your Macintosh, and must also have a wireless connection to your Macintosh.
Skyfire
Flash-compatible browsing
This is my favorite go-to browser for the iPad because it is the first that Apple endorsed for browsing and viewing Flash-based content (which I seem to come across quite frequently in my genealogy research). It handles most sites that the built in Safari iPad browser stumbles on, including Flash video (with video compression to help save your bandwidth). It does not yet, however, handle flash apps such as the display of digitized documents on FamilySearch.org. The Skyfire app also includes some nifty tools, such as a Facebook QuickView, Twitter QuickView, Google Reader, and tools for easily sharing content from every Web page you visit.
TripIt
Organize your genealogy travel
Set up a free TripIt account and forward copies of your travel itineraries to the service’s address—Plans@tripit.com. That's all there is to it. Too difficult? Then configure TripIt’s Website to check your inbox automatically to skip even this simple step. TripIt keeps all details of your travel itinerary, whether it is flight and gate information, hotel reservations, or cruise ports of call, in one easy to use app, including text and/or email alerts of last minute changes such as flight delays or gate changes. The TripIt travel organizer is available for both iPhone and iPad, although the TripIt for iPad also offers an easy-to-view master map that captures your entire trip, as well as individual maps for each step of your journey. Free with ads. Ad-free version also available for purchase.