Family Tree Software Application

Save yourself wasted hours of research by protecting your information with a family tree software application. Do not rely solely on your memory to retain significant details about the lives of your family. Instead use an electronic storage program to hold those details.

About Family Tree Research

Not everyone wants to become a genealogist, but most people want to know more about their family history. In some civilizations, knowing the family tree was so important; children memorized hundreds of their ancestors' names, in order of birth. Today relying on memory alone is not necessary. Computer programs allow families to keep digital records of ancestors' names, where they came from, and important statistical information. Once these tidbits are unearthed, loading them into your program will save your family tree research for later access.

Reasons to Use Family Tree Software Applications

Family tracking applications are useful for keeping up with vital information. With the right software you can:

  • Trace and track your family tree.
  • Build a sense of pride about your heritage and learn more about your ancestors.
  • Share your heritage with other members of your family including your children and grandchildren.
  • Network with other family researchers. Some software applications pool and share information with other program users, digitally uploading files instantly.
  • Make managing, storing, and sharing family history less time consuming and more enjoyable.

Helpful Software Features

Select a program that offers some or all of these features:

  • Digital and printable, blank pedigree charts
  • GEDCOM or Genealogical Date Communication importing and exporting capabilities
  • Coat of arms display page
  • Photograph storage and photo management
  • Management tools for individuals and family groups
  • Web publishing capabilities that allow you to share family information with members around the world

Where to Find Family Tree Software

Visit your local bookstore to find a software application you can download and use on your home computer. Websites like FamilyTreeMaker and Legacy Family Tree allow you to purchase products from their online stores.

Family Tree Maker

Family Tree Maker, published by Ancestry, utilizes digital media to create family books. With built-in scanner support, loading in new photographs is less complicated than in previous versions. This software interacts well with other leading programs like Master Genealogist and Legacy Family Tree. You can create timelines and to-do lists right in the program. With the purchase of Family Tree Maker, you will gain access to the records located on and through Ancestry's website. You can also get instant updates by logging on periodically to the Family Tree Maker website.

Legacy Family Tree

Legacy Family Tree, published by Millennia, utilizes Microsoft's Virtual Earth to display your ancestors' home countries or regions. There is a free standard version and a deluxe version available for a fee. The standard version gives family and pedigree views, bookmarking capabilities and some charts. The deluxe version of Legacy Family tree provides research guidance, extensive mapping, access to location databases and chronology reports. This software will make finding information on your immediate and extended family tree almost effortless.

Your Past Matters

Somewhere in your past is a hero, a pirate or an important entrepreneur. Rediscovering the notable characters in your family does not happen overnight. Family tree software applications are invaluable tools to use on your unique discovery. It is a worthy investment for anyone seriously interested in knowing more about their roots. Make researching and adding information to the program an activity for your families to share. Family Tree Maker, Legacy Family Tree and other software programs offer individuals the tools they need to fill in the gaps in their trees and keep the information safe for posterity.