Review by Michelle Rayburn

I have used and reviewed two previous versions of the family tree software. I am so happy to say this is a huge improvement. First, it’s much easier to navigate than previous versions. It seamlessly integrates between the software and internet content. Before, it would navigate me to the web for a document, or a branch of the family tree, but I would have trouble getting back to where I started in the software. Now, back buttons and a common menu make it simple.

I like that it’s intuitive. I can figure a lot of it out without a manual. Huge improvement! And if you’re someone who needs a little more guidance, it comes with a handy PRINT copy of a manual. Yes, that’s a print copy, not an eBook. This means you can flip through, mark pages, and have it open on your desk as you work. The manual shows how you can take your family tree info, integrate photos and media from online, add stories, and then create a book that you can order about your family.

I love how this version syncs with online records. When you click the little leaf by a family member’s name, you’ll find immigration records (scanned images of hand written documents), maps, photos, census records and more. With a click of a button, you can associate a media file with a family member so that you can open it again later.

Since I am working from older versions of the program, I had to import my files. With this new version, you’ll have to follow the steps to import it and convert to the new version. You’ll have the option of saving a second copy in the old version at this time too, just in case you have two versions running on two computers or something.

The 2014 version allows you to choose your family tree view and there are shortcuts in a list format to each person in the family tree. It’s so much easier to click and edit a family member in this version. It’s also easy to add notes about the person and view additional resources.

If you’re starting from scratch researching your family tree, you don’t necessarily have to know all of your family history. If other family members have done some research, even distant family, you can link up to the existing records. I was able to find all of my family through at least great grandparents, and more in more cases. If you know birth dates, you can match up with records of family members that are already in the database and quickly fill out your family tree.

I give this four stars for ease of use. I would give it five if it didn’t require a subscription to the service in order to be able to use the software. The software is expensive as it is, and then the subscription adds to it. I won’t be able to afford to renew when my 3 months is up.