In the digital era, preserving your family history has become more engaging and accessible than ever before. Among the various genealogy tools available, Family Tree Maker stands out as one of the most trusted and widely used software programs. Designed for both amateur genealogists and professional researchers, it allows users to organize, preserve, and share their family stories in an efficient and visually appealing way.
Whether you are just beginning to explore your family roots or updating an existing genealogy project, Family Tree Maker 2017 remains a cornerstone for building detailed and accurate family records. Let’s explore what makes this software exceptional, how it works, and why it continues to be a preferred choice among family history enthusiasts.
What Is Family Tree Maker?
Family Tree Maker is a genealogy software that helps users create and maintain detailed family trees. It was originally developed by Broderbund in the late 1980s and has since evolved through multiple versions, becoming more powerful with each update. The software enables users to document relationships, add photographs, attach historical records, and even integrate with popular genealogy websites like Ancestry com.
The main advantage of using Family Tree Maker is that it provides an intuitive interface for managing vast amounts of family data. From birth and death records to marriage certificates and census data, everything can be stored in one organized system. The software also allows for chart creation, timeline generation, and printable reports, making it a comprehensive tool for documenting family history.
The Legacy of Family Tree Maker 2017
When Family Tree Maker 2017 was released, it became a turning point in the history of genealogy software. This version was developed after the acquisition of the software by MacKiev, ensuring continued support and development. It addressed many issues from previous versions and introduced improved integration with online databases.
Key updates in Family Tree Maker 2017 included:
- Enhanced TreeSync Technology:
- This feature allowed users to synchronize their offline family trees with online trees on Ancestry com. Any changes made offline or online were automatically updated across platforms, ensuring that data remained consistent.
- Integration with FamilySearch:
- Family Tree Maker 2017 expanded its database connection by allowing users to link with FamilySearch — one of the world’s largest free genealogy databases. This helped users discover new ancestors and verify historical information more efficiently.
- Improved Media Handling:
- The 2017 version improved media management, enabling users to attach and organize photos, documents, and audio files with ease. This enhancement made family storytelling richer and more personal.
- Color Coding and Filters:
- Family Tree Maker 2017 introduced color coding for better visualization. Users could assign colors to specific family branches, making it easier to navigate large family trees.
- Stability and Performance:
- MacKiev’s focus on performance optimization made this version more reliable. It reduced crashes, improved speed, and offered a smoother overall experience.
Why Genealogists Still Rely on Family Tree Maker
Despite the rise of various online genealogy tools, Family Tree Maker continues to be a favorite for several reasons:
- Offline Capability:
- Many researchers prefer to work offline, especially when dealing with sensitive family data. Family Tree Maker allows complete offline functionality, ensuring privacy and security.
- Comprehensive Reporting Tools:
- The software can generate a wide range of reports, including pedigree charts, family group sheets, and narrative reports. These are invaluable for printing or sharing family research.
- User-Friendly Interface:
- Even beginners find it easy to use. The drag-and-drop functionality and guided steps help users build detailed trees without technical hassle.
- Customizable Options:
- Users can personalize charts, fonts, and colors, making their family history not only accurate but also visually engaging.
- Data Accuracy:
- Integration with Ancestry com and FamilySearch ensures that users have access to verified records, minimizing errors in their genealogical research.
Upgrading from Family Tree Maker 2017
If you are still using Family Tree Maker 2017, you may wonder whether upgrading to newer versions is necessary. The answer depends on your needs. Newer versions offer cloud sync improvements, better media handling, and additional compatibility with macOS and Windows updates. However, many users still rely on Family Tree Maker 2017 because of its stability, simplicity, and compatibility with Ancestry TreeSync.
Before upgrading, ensure that your current tree is fully backed up. The software offers multiple backup options, including cloud-based backups and external drives, ensuring that your research is safe.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Family Tree Maker
- Regularly Sync Your Data:
- Always keep your online and offline trees updated to prevent data loss.
- Use Source Citations:
- Properly cite every record you add to your tree to maintain accuracy.
- Add Photos and Stories:
- Family trees aren’t just about names and dates — add life to them by including photos, memories, and family anecdotes.
- Back Up Frequently:
- Backups safeguard your research against accidental loss or software failure.
- Join Online Communities:
- Family Tree Maker has a strong online community where users share tips, troubleshooting advice, and historical data.
Conclusion
Family Tree Maker and Family Tree Maker 2017 have transformed the way people record and preserve their family histories. Whether you are researching your ancestors for personal satisfaction or building a detailed record for future generations, this software provides all the necessary tools to make the process organized and enjoyable.
Its balance of offline functionality, online integration, and intuitive features continues to make it a top choice for genealogists worldwide. By using Family Tree Maker effectively, you can turn fragmented family stories into a beautifully preserved digital legacy.
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