RootsChat.Com
General => The Common Room => Topic started by: groom on Tuesday 08 December 15 23:07 GMT (UK)
-
I've just had this email from Ancestry
we’ve made the tough decision to stop selling Family Tree Maker as of December 31, 2015.
We will continue to support existing Family Tree Maker owners at least through January 1, 2017. During this time, all features of the software, including TreeSync™ will continue to work. Our Member Services team will also remain available to assist with questions or issues you may have.
-
Wow, did they give any reason?
Having no idea of Ancestry's finances, my theory is that FTM is too small a part of their operation to make a significant contribution
I've had small worries about the state of the company behind my own software package, but, hopefully, by staying small and focussed, it will remain worthwhile to continue
-
http://blogs.ancestry.com/ancestry/2015/12/08/ancestry-to-retire-family-tree-maker-software/
-
Hi,
I've just picked up this message as well. Seems they are going to concentrate their efforts elsewhere. But will support FTM until 2017.
CD
-
I have my tree on FTM and Ancestry, however what will happen if you have FTM on your computer and then change computers? Before, I just synced to Ancestry, loaded FTM on the new computer and then downloaded from Ancestry. Presumably we wont be able to do that?
-
Perhaps the idea is they just want you to have your tree on Ancestry? :-\
I use FTM and Legacy but of late my preference has been to use Legacy. However, I do need to start transferring all the FTM data. I guess I now have a real motive to get my trees up to date!
-
Just had the same email. 1st Jan 2017 isn't that long away really, not good at all.
-
just got the e-mail.... not very happy. I only have my tree on FTM not open on ancestry. And I sure don;t want it open to anyone. I have been thinking about Legacy as I did a Legacy genealogy cruise this past summer. Guess I will be changing over and not sure if I will subcribe to ancestry anymore.
Cheers
Anne
-
I think the key phrase is:
we’ve taken a hard look at the declining desktop software market and the impact this has on being able to continue to provide new content, product enhancements and support that our users need.
It is probably true that overall the desktop market is declining, but that ignores the simple and incontrovertible fact that desktop products still provide a level of functionality that cannot be matched by online applications and/or services. Ancestry doesn't hold all the cards in respect of online data sources, and so we, as family history researchers, still need a way to collect, organise, and analyse data from a variety of different places. Furthermore, I would want complete control over the data that I wish to be available in the public domain, and actually I trust my own security over and above that of any online service, including Ancestry.
The cynical observer will simply read into this announcement that Ancestry are trying for encourage us to do more of our research online, and within Ancestry, and keep and maintain our results there. They, in return generate increased revenue and can leverage (horrible American term!) the investment we make by our research efforts. Do not be surprised if we soon see a charge if we wish not only to keep our trees on Ancestry private, but also if our trees start to grow beyond a certain size.
My message to Ancestry is that I'm certainly not going to retire my desktop systems yet, and I will continue to support competitors' desktop products as long as they provide the very significant functionality that Ancestry's online systems cannot. I think they have made a dumb decision.
-
Perhaps the idea is they just want you to have your tree on Ancestry? :-\
My guess is that not enough people with trees on Ancestry have bought FTM
I have my tree on FTM and Ancestry, however what will happen if you have FTM on your computer and then change computers? Before, I just synced to Ancestry, loaded FTM on the new computer and then downloaded from Ancestry. Presumably we wont be able to do that?
They've only said that they might not support it from 2017, it might still work without their support, but yes, afdter that bets are off
I expect you'll still be able to download the GEDCOM, which presumably FTM has been designed to cope with the Ancestry dialect
It's not the end of the world to type things you've found on Ancestry into the software directly BTW
-
OK, so birthday / Xmas list 2016 now includes new FH software, second monitor for laptop...
I agree with mezentia that its a dumb move. I swallowed their price increase even though their records are less relevant than their main UK competition ("In 2015, we’ve made 220 million searchable historical records from Mexico available" doesn't really sell it for me!) and now they're removing the ability to synch the records they do have. Seems a bit arrogant of them if you ask me, especially on top of the enforced 'improved' online version that I absolutely hate.
Looks like I may be paying for the new equipment by not renewing Ancestry subscription.
-
I have my tree on FTM and Ancestry, however what will happen if you have FTM on your computer and then change computers? Before, I just synced to Ancestry, loaded FTM on the new computer and then downloaded from Ancestry. Presumably we wont be able to do that?
Groom....
Was your FTM a download or a disc?
Annie
-
Well I've been using FTM since before it was bought by Ancestry and it looks like I shall be using it after they are finished with it. It is a stand alone program on my computer - not synched to Ancestry - and the computer is only months old so I think I shall manage for some time to come.
As for not continuing my subscription - this won't be the first time I've been tempted but it may be the one time I don't renew.
-
I have used Legacy for several years. I have several templates on Word which I use to transfer information from Ancestry to Legacy, in a standard format. It may be a little awkward transferring, but, to me, it means that I can have census info and BDM info in a standard format regardless of how it appears online.
Also, as I have only just paid for Ancestry I do not have FTM any way.
AC
-
I have FTM on disc which I have installed on different computers & as far as I can make out, it was only synched to ancestry if you were a member?
I can use it with or without a membership to ancestry & upload my own gedcoms so I doubt it will make any difference to me either.
Annie
-
I have my tree on FTM and Ancestry, however what will happen if you have FTM on your computer and then change computers? Before, I just synced to Ancestry, loaded FTM on the new computer and then downloaded from Ancestry. Presumably we wont be able to do that?
Groom....
Was your FTM a download or a disc?
Annie
It's a disc but updated, last year I think, via a download.
-
Why not switch to Brother's Keeper, which is free ! ;D
-
RootsMagic are quick off the mark. :)
http://blog.rootsmagic.com/
-
Wonder if "ancestry" are wanting us all to put all our work online........something I'm "NOT" all all keen on doing...as so many just copy or..don't research and prove their work.
:-\
Yonks
-
Oops just spotted crisanes reply.
RootsMagic were quick to respond. Received an email suggesting that RM 'A New Home
Over the past few years, thousands of Family Tree Maker users have made the switch to RootsMagic. They’ve enjoyed its amazing new features such as
I wont go further. I use RM and found it to be a good software/desktop package , but I guess like most things , as it was the 1st I really tried , its one I am comfortable with. I did try a few others but find RM works for me.
-
I have also tried a few other programs but settled on RootsMagic a couple of years ago because I find it the easiest to use. I put my info on there then every so often download a gedcom and put it on to Tribal Pages as an extra backup.
-
Got the email this morning. I'd already decided to keep a copy of my tree on another software package. The feature for attaching census data is very useful. A few problems such as getting duplicate features, plus I think I've lost some data and few other things.i think there's probably problems with all software. Wonder what happens to the DNA interface?
-
This is probably a timely lesson to everyone to keep their Trees under their own control and invest in a FT program. I use Ancestral Quest. I've used it for years and updated it several times to newer versions, but found that, after 2012, it got a bit too jazzy for my taste. A 3 year old program, does what I need and want, and I'm happy. 8)
-
My first reaction on reading about this just now was that Ancestry want us all to use their online tree facility and NOTHING else. And of course that means you have to subscribe to Ancestry.com which is not cheap. Dumping FTM will be a huge saving to their company.
I've used FTM for nearly 20 years (long before Ancestry bought it) and have always gone back to it after trying other FT software. I've recently bought a disc of the latest version and it's stand-alone so this decision doesn't really affect me. From it, I can make a Gedcom of any file to use on any other FT software, so I'm not panicking.
I have not uploaded my own family tree ANYWHERE on the internet. After seeing the bodged attempts at most online trees, I don't want anything to do with any sort of co-operation via Ancestry.
Ancestry is a money making business and anything they do will always be for the benefit of their profits and not necessarily their customers! As with all products, use what is helpful and dump the rest.
Gen in NBL England
-
Must admit I don't buy the conspiracy theory that Ancestry are using this as a means to force people to use their online trees.
No, I'm going to take their statement at face value - they don't see it as a growth area, so they're getting out of it
-
I don't think there's any "conspiracy theory". I just think that Ancestry want to lock customers in to their services. It's a technique called increasing the switching costs. Our banks, power suppliers, and lots of other use it all the time. I do think they have very considerably underestimated the extent of user dissatisfaction though.
In the meantime, if anyone is thinking of switching to a new software package, can I please put in an honourable mention for a British package called Family Historian. I've used it now for many years and found it meets all my needs and more. I also has dual benefit of being more British focussed as well as being 100% GEDCOM compliant. There's an active user group , although this can tend to get very technical, and if the program can't do what you want, there's a facility for writing plugins to add that extra functionality.
I'd counsel anyone using FTM to take some time to decide what to do next, and remember that Ancestry does have datasets that other online service providers do not, so cancelling subscriptions may not be wise, unless you plan to use a trial memberships to fill in the gaps.
-
I was a bit miffed when I received their e-mail yesterday, and I'd only just brought another copy of FTM... Long story short, this was a replacement after losing my downloaded version, so this time I ordered a copy of the cd as well.
But if you've got a CD copy of FTM then it's probably good for quite a few years to come, yes some of the features but will still work as a stand alone. Same if you got the downloaded version unless you need to restore at anytime.
As to are they trying to get use their online tree only etc... Doubt it, it just ain't hitting the profit margins Ancestry wants it to hit nor can they see a way of getting to hit the profit margin any time soon....
I've tried several programs out, but liked the layout of FTM as it was very similar to Ancestry which I do have subs for at the moment... But perhaps it's time to check others programs out.
-
I've no intention of cancelling my Ancestry subs, but if I did at anytime in the future, I understand that I could still see my tree on there - could I still work on it? I presume I could also download it as a gedcom and put it onto FTM as I won't be able to sync it as I do now. The problem will come if at anytime Ancestry decide that if you don't subscribe you can't see your tree!
-
Their blog has been hit by over 4600 panicking individuals.
http://www.rootschat.com/links/01gmw/
If Ancestry had not taken an edition out every year, but had left it every 3 years, it may have been a better financial decision, rather than flooding the market, trying to outdoo their competitors. I have 2 versions, each being 3 years apart. I have no intention of panicking.
I have my trees on my hard drives, nowhere else.
Regards
Malky.
-
Ancestry's own on-site blog is in meltdown with all the howls of protest from its subscriber base. All software suppliers are looking to embrace the received wisdom of "cloud computing". It locks in its customers but it does provide the benefit of one depository for all data (the need for "synching" disappears). Until this morning I was a happy user of Ancestry/FTM. Ancestry finds the data but FTM is where it is all verified and cleansed. The attach/detach person functions are two that I simply could not be without as I discover new facts about relationships that require my tree to be "redrawn".
I am now investigating the competition and will migrate from FTM during 2016 with a view to letting my Ancestry subscription lapse when it expires next summer.
So Rootschatters, I will welcome your suggestions on the best source of UK genealogical data; the best PC-based family tree software package; and (if different) the best combination of products that intregrates acquiring data and storing it in tree form.
Many thanks
Malcolm
-
So Rootschatters, I will welcome your suggestions on the best source of UK genealogical data; the best PC-based family tree software package; and (if different) the best combination of products that intregrates acquiring data and storing it in tree form.
There's no "best" source of data. I've amassed information from many different sources.
As for software, I use Family Historian which was recommended by mezentia a few posts back.
I haven't kept up with the updates though - I'm still using Version 3, and it's up to Version 6 now. Even so, I only make use of a fraction of its functionality. It does everything I need.
You can download it for a month's free trial
http://www.family-historian.co.uk/downloads/free-30-day-trial
-
Do I look bothered..? Just because the FTM Windows PC program is no longer updated doesn't mean it stops working, or that you have to move off it. It will remain a good repository for your research (from Ancestry, ....AND all the other sources). I use a version of FTM from 2007 - it still works fine, has no issues, and does all that I need. Ancestry just want to move everyone online because there's more revenue, market intelligence, and social media hype from that in the long term.
-
I use FTM for Windows 95 on my five month old computer running Windows 10. It still works. , Although on line help hasn't been supported for a long time, I still have the big tome which came with the large box full of discs, so I don't really need it.
I nearly bought the latest FTM a few months ago when all the computer experts I asked said there wasn't a chance of my old FTM working with Windows 8 and certainly not with Windows 10. Lucky I ignored them, got it loaded and saved my money.
Although it does depend on how much the modern FTM needs to be on line to actually work properly. Old software was designed to be standalone
That blog on the Ancestry website is growing by the second!
-
I've no intention of cancelling my Ancestry subs, but if I did at anytime in the future, I understand that I could still see my tree on there - could I still work on it? I presume I could also download it as a gedcom and put it onto FTM as I won't be able to sync it as I do now. The problem will come if at anytime Ancestry decide that if you don't subscribe you can't see your tree!
Yes you can, Jan ;D
I let my subscription lapse 2 years ago (budget cuts, living on JSA!), and I can still edit my trees and create new trees.
What I can't do is to see the census, BDM and other sources from Ancestry. And I can't look at other people's trees.
What I do is to use Ancestry Library Edition at my local library, with my signed in version in another window. Then, when I find some information In LibEdn I simply type it into my own version.
-
Quote from: groom on Today at 11:15
I've no intention of cancelling my Ancestry subs, but if I did at anytime in the future, I understand that I could still see my tree on there - could I still work on it? I presume I could also download it as a gedcom and put it onto FTM as I won't be able to sync it as I do now. The problem will come if at anytime Ancestry decide that if you don't subscribe you can't see your tree!
Yes you can, Jan
Yes you can at the moment but there is no guarantee that Ancestry will continue to provide this functionality. Now they have eliminated the need to interface to FTM, they can develop their online product that might (only might) mean that all but a basic GEDCOM connection will no longer function.
I'm not in a panic (as suggested by some poster on the various forums now discussing this) but my trees represent an enormous amount of time, effort and expense made over many years. Securing all the data, notes, images, narratives, etc will be a very laborious task. Yes, FTM will continue to function as a standalone product but for me, it is just one of a number of products competing for my pension. My only reason for not migrating to Apple two years ago (since all our other gadgets are Apple products) was the functionality of the final FTM release. So for me, Ancestry have just pushed me hard enough to make the leap to an iMac when my venerable Windows PC breathes its last.
-
Like many people I was surprised and shocked to see that Family Tree Maker was being dropped by Ancestry. I have used it for many years (from around 2006 I think) and like it a lot. I have all my family history on it as well as thousands of jpg files of original records and photos all linked to individuals in my tree.
Unlike most of the people writing in I do not have a subscription to Ancestry and use the program because I like it. I have had the odd 3 month subscription to Ancestry but mainly use Find My Past.
Everyone should be able to continue using the program until their PC operating system will not support it any longer - will the current version run under Windows 10?
There are several questions that I would like to be answered before doing anything:
1 - the FTM program is written by a software company not linked to ancestry (Avenquest - I believe) would they be willing to continue developing/maintaining the software?
2 - would other family tree programs be modified to import FTM exports (including photos and other records linked to the tree).
3 - what are the other family history programs that are as good as FTM? I looked at lots of others many years ago and at that time FTM was the best but things have probably changed a lot since then. I don't particularly want to have to import my data and then redo all the links to records and photos.
I am open to suggestions!
-
Blimey ?? that's not what I typed. Never mind. :-\
The over-reactors have gone and done it. This will surely change the decision by Mr Kendall Hulet.
http://www.rootschat.com/links/01gn2/
5000+ complainers, only 531 petition signatories. Perhaps, by moaning on the blog, they have already vented their steam.
Regards
Malky.
-
And to add some context, in 2012 Ancestry claimed 2m paying subscribers, which another blog estimated would equate to about 1.8m active users
-
I still use FTM 2007 and do not have my tree on Ancestry. However, because that version is no longer linked to the Ancestry database, a function I found very useful, have been considering up grading to get that functionality back. Am glad now that I dithered because I did not really like the latest versions. Although I could carry on using FTM 2007 as a stand alone am worried about the lack of software support.
-
They are playing with my tired brain... (just mine ;D >:( of course NO ONE elses)
I had to give up on PAF and have been busy attempting to sort FTM out as I was given a copy by my cousin....
Now its not worth using that one... I shall just type out hard copies... until the panic goes away and someone can advise the best route.
getting too tired to keep up with all the changes, .... next week we have the swop over to deal with and goodness knows what else..
Time to go back to knitting as a hobby, do you still use wool and two pins :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
xin
-
I've been reading that blog on and off all day (now over 6000 posts) and what I don't get is why Ancestry are still selling this programme if they aren't going to support it, that is pretty poor customer service if not downright dishonest.
A few people have only just bought FTM over the past few days/weeks and they are not happy chappies, understandably so. :'(
-
Wonder how many have it on their Christmas list?
-
There are two parts to this one is cloud storage which is never a good thing for secure archival of records, cloud storage is ok as an additional back up but never a good idea for a master file.
The second is an efficient family history program.
I have never rated FTM as any more than a run of the mill program aimed at the American market.
Many versions of FTM have slowed to a crawl when used to store a high number images linked to records.
There have been far more efficient databases available such as Brothers Keeper an excellent program which can be easily linked to word processors for additional text files and graphics programs such as Photoshop for graphics handling.
It also allows text files and graphic files to be stored wherever on wants them to be stored, which is excellent if one wants to share files with others.
Cheers
Guy
-
I did wonder at one time if Ancestry throws so many hits at you when you do a search then when you narrow it down like exact name and place of birth it gives you ZERO results whether it was some "method" of keeping your monthly payment subscription for longer as it takes more time to sift and search thereby wasting time on records that have no relevance to your search.........is this another way of making you a life time subscriber rather than somebody who can dip in for a month's subs at home here and there (or go to the local library) ......like they are trying to force everybody's hand into uploading their whole family tree and LOTS of time and money and effort onto THEIR site. Is this how the "shaky leaves" thing works? I've never really understood that. Does it come from the indexed transcribed records or from other member's trees?
-
I'm not sure why anybody would be surprised ::)
The trend for some time now has been to move away from selling software on disk or download, for a one-off payment, toward a system of licensing which gives you access to a 'cloud-based' system for a monthly fee. So, instead of paying say £100 for the software, you can use it for £10 per month . . . as long as you keep paying. There were rumours that this was going to be the future for Windows itself, but I haven't kept up with the news on that.
Doesn't take a mathematician to work out who gains from this arrangement . . .
Meanwhile, I really like RootsMagic (UK edition) after trying just about all the others.
Mike.
-
There seems to be a shock by some people on here because of an almost inevitable decision of discontinuing home computer based version. What really is the surprise is that they haven't used it to announce the next step.
Software has life-cycles, if you look at Microsoft, they have announced end-of-life dates for their products, yet people continue to use them well after the support has been withdrawn. People are still using older versions of FTM with no ill effect.
Software makers are moving away from physical media based programs that are released in major versions you buy and install to cloud based programs and subscription based methods of paying for it. Microsoft Office is one good example of this. So my surprise over the announcement is that they have simply announced to discontinue FTM when they have a web based program those with subscriptions and online trees can use. They should have tied in the announcement of the end-of-life date for desktop versions with one saying the next FTM will be browser based and free to subscribers. It would allow people to keep databases both online and local with options to have it synced online) , but require an active subscription. Of course, if FTM is made under license by another company, maybe they are unwilling to allow ancestry to develop it this way.
-
I bought my copy of FMT as a download from a company called Avanquest but I have idea if this is a subsidiary of Ancestry.
A lot of people who are concerned are what we call Silver Surfers on a fixed income who simply don't have the resources to fork out any more money than they are already doing which I found incredibly sad.
http://www.rootschat.com/links/01gn6/
-
These cloud based systems are all very well if everyone had fast and reliable broadband and were in a place where they could connect to the internet continuously.
-
Wonder how many have it on their Christmas list?
I'd been planning on asking for it (or buying it myself!) having tried several trial packages over the last year. Not sure what to do now :-\
-
I've been reading that blog on and off all day (now over 6000 posts) and what I don't get is why Ancestry are still selling this programme if they aren't going to support it, that is pretty poor customer service if not downright dishonest.
A few people have only just bought FTM over the past few days/weeks and they are not happy chappies, understandably so. :'(
It only seems available as a download - no physical discs now.
And no mention that there will only be support for another 55 weeks.
http://www.ancestryshop.co.uk/products/software/family-tree-maker-2014-platinum-edition
-
Software makers seem the like to maintain the delusion that we are all globally connected to the internet. The simple fact is that we are not, and they do a considerable disservice to the customer base by denying them the ability to work offline. There seems to be a concerted push by most major manufacturers to force everyone to use cloud-based services. I for one will resist. There have been far too many high profile leaks of personal information recently that only go to illustrate big companies inability to provide proper security for highly personal information. I'll be keeping my research on my local and well-secured PC.
There are plenty of other good family history programs about. I've used Family Historian for years after trialling most of the other progams, and along with the companion Ancestral Sources would recommend it. There's plenty of help for importing FTM trees on the FHUG forum. OK, it doesn't sync with Ancestry, but then again, I don't want my entire tree on Ancestry.
Of course, simply because Ancestry is withdrawing support doesn't mean that it won't work in future. Plenty of people have written to say they are using quite old versions, so there's no immediate need to panic, but use the time to check out what else is available on the market.
Just one piece of advice, back-up all your data and check you can restore from the backup, before testing and migrating to any new package.
-
I've been reading that blog on and off all day (now over 6000 posts) and what I don't get is why Ancestry are still selling this programme if they aren't going to support it, that is pretty poor customer service if not downright dishonest.
A few people have only just bought FTM over the past few days/weeks and they are not happy chappies, understandably so. :'(
It only seems available as a download - no physical discs now.
And no mention that there will only be support for another 55 weeks.
http://www.ancestryshop.co.uk/products/software/family-tree-maker-2014-platinum-edition
Would you expect them to? It would effect sales until end of the year, and they have probably satisfied legal announcement requirements. It comes with 6 months membership, so will be supported after then. Though anyone starting out and buying it, unaware of the announcement may well be peeved off.
-
If the move to subscription based online software becomes universal I imagine a strong 'black market' could develop for the older programmes, so best hang on to them for now ;)
-
I am not sure if i am putting this on the most appropriate section of Roots but hopefully someone will point me in the right direction if I have got it wrong.
I have used the Family Tree Maker (FTM) software for many years to record my family research information and also I have also subscribed to Ancestry which I use to research data. Since Ancestry bought out FTM I have been able to sync my desktop tree to Ancestry as i am sure many people do and have enjoyed the joint provision.
This week I got an email from Ancestry to say they are retiring FTM from Dec 2015 but will continue supporting it until Jan 2017. This has massive implications for people who use FTM and Ancestry if you wish to keep your family tree research on your computer. As from Jan 2017 FTM software wont be supported and if you wish to maintain your tree you will have to use the internet version on Ancestry. As I understand it you will need to go on the internet to access your tree and I guess you will have to continue your Ancestry subscription as once you cancel it you will lose access to your tree and all the research you have done. Has anyone else considered this situation and have any thoughts on what alternatives they will consider. I really don't want to lose control of my family tree and all the research I have done.
-
This is the earlier thread on this with lots of replies that may help you
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php?topic=736762.msg5827409
Topics merged.
-
An earlier posted mentioned Avanquest. They are the distribtuors for FTM in Europe. I don't think they are directly connected to Ancestry but I could be wrong ... again :-\
Wikipedia: "Avanquest Software is a business unit of Avanquest S.A., a French-based multinational, publicly traded corporation headquartered in La Garenne-Colombes, France. The company designs, develops, publishes and distributes a wide range of software applications for Microsoft Windows and Macintosh OS X operating systems and for iOS and Android mobile devices."
-
I have just signed the ONLINE PETITION for Ancestry to continue supporting and updating FTM at
https://goo.gl/QS6AC0
David Eastman has also put the petition link on his Online Genealogy blog.
http://blog.eogn.com/2015/12/10/online-petition-stop-ancestry-from-retiring-family-tree-maker-software/
As Microsoft continue to update windows eventually the FTM program will not be compatible and become obsolete. You will have to use Ancestry website.
-
Let's be realistic here!
That petition has now (as I write this) reached a magnificent total of 282 supporters! ::)
Do you really think Ancestry will take notice of any petition, let alone this paltry effort?
What Ancestry is doing is to stop supporting, developing and selling FTM.
That does NOT mean it won't work!
After all, Microsoft no longer support Windows XP, and Windows Vista and support for Windows 7 will end on 12th January 2015!
But many people (millions?!) continue to use XP and Vista, and many millions more will continue to us W7.
I continue t use a fair bit of software that "is no longer supported" - but it still works! ;D
-
What I am really upset about is the loss of synchonised trees.
That was one of the best features.
I will not keep my up to date tree online only, meaning that the online tree will soon not be up to my latest research (Assuming I make more progress! :) )
It was a USP that they are throwing away
-
Mezentia wrote:
There seems to be a concerted push by most major manufacturers to force everyone to use cloud-based services. I for one will resist. There have been far too many high profile leaks of personal information recently that only go to illustrate big companies inability to provide proper security for highly personal information. I'll be keeping my research on my local and well-secured PC.
My sentiments exactly!
Gen in NBL England
-
What I am really upset about is the loss of synchonised trees.
That was one of the best features.
That is the main thing that I will miss. I tend to work on my tree on line as I find it easier, but I know at the moment that it will then synchronise with FTM. Unless I remember to do this manually in the future everytime I use one or the other, I will soon have different trees.
-
There is a follow up blog on ancestry (if I knew how to provide a link I would!) It states again that we will be able to use software exactly as we do now for at least the next year. It also says that they are exploring possible relationships with other software solutions to integrate their products with ancestry and are exploring options to bring reports and related functionality from FTM onto the online service.
In the q and a section this part this part stood out for me " You will be able to access your data through your desktop software beyond Jan 1 2017,however over time there will be a gradual degradation of features. You can always export your tree and save it".
Personally I am not going to rush into changing to another package - I think given the general reaction that this one is going to run and run.
William
-
We have been spoilt by having the ability to synchronise our on-line and off line trees { none of the other Genealogy Prorammes offer it} so we will have to go back to entering everything again time when we make a change to one or the other :(
I recently had a big problem when 2 of my trees on line and off line would not sync-I phoned support and they talked me through what in the end was taking GEDCOMs of the on line trees {which were the recently worked on} downloading them to the desktop and then deleting the original ones - I must admit to being extremly nervous but it worked so I assume it could be used if one got badly out of kilter at any time
Kim
-
What I am really upset about is the loss of synchonised trees.
That was one of the best features.
That is the main thing that I will miss. I tend to work on my tree on line as I find it easier, but I know at the moment that it will then synchronise with FTM. Unless I remember to do this manually in the future everytime I use one or the other, I will soon have different trees.
As Millmoor indicated, Ancestry have said your copy of FTM will work after 1 Jan 2017, and have provided a follow-up post to cover the enquiries they have received (http://blogs.ancestry.com/ancestry/2015/12/09/more-information-on-family-tree-maker-desktop-software/).
Up until 1 Jan 2017 everything will be as it is now, you just won't be able to buy copies after December 2015. After 1st Jan everything will continue, you just won't get bugfix updates or be able to get support from Ancestry on FTM related issues. There is no guarantee how long everything will work, so they have to state that caveat, but that's only if there are changes in 3rd party software that effects the functionality. They aren't going to stop allowing synch's etc just because the 1 Jan has been reached!
As an example, I was using FTM2012 on my desktop that was running MS Vista operating system. A change happened in Internet Explorer which meant I could no longer use FTM for online searches. I could use the website because I used non-microsoft browsers, but not FTM which relies upon IE. I did a back-up and moved FTM to my Windows 7 laptop, and all the in-app searches worked again.
So don't assume that you won't be able to continue to use your software after Jan 2017, as you will and with the functionality it currently has. If some functionality does eventually stop, it doesn't necessarily it can't be restored by changing your set-up.
Of course you may wish to take the time to look at other software if you feel that one with ongoing support would be better. You could then migrate when and if you feel ready, rather than be forced to.
-
I think Ancestry have lost the plot, and by the sounds of things they'll be losing a few customers too. They want everyone to keep info on the cloud, but what happens when the cloud bursts?
I wondered why I couldn't buy a new edition FTM via Tesco and Avanquest this year, it was always useful at renewal time with the offer of a few free months. They are still advertising the upgrades though, which seems rather underhanded.
I added my bit to the responses on the 2nd part of the blog today, over 8000, mostly complaints. 'We welcome your feedback' they say, but really they just mean don't bother.
The other software folks must be looking forward to new purchasers, and are offering discounts.
-
What Ancestry is doing is to stop supporting, developing and selling FTM.
That does NOT mean it won't work!
After all, Microsoft no longer support Windows XP, and Windows Vista and support for Windows 7 will end on 12th January 2015!
But many people (millions?!) continue to use XP and Vista, and many millions more will continue to us W7.
I continue t use a fair bit of software that "is no longer supported" - but it still works! ;D
I also continue to use software that "is no longer supported" - whether it was software obtained by purchased cd or downloaded online. I don't understand the panic.......
Cocksie
-
I think the main reason people are annoyed is that they will no longer be able to automatically synchronise their online and offline trees. I can see their point, but it's not something I ever did because I like to keep my data all together on my own system, with multiple backups of course. Once you rely on online data you are forced to keep paying the subscription or lose it all.
There 'Cloud' is just a bunch of servers somewhere else, which require a fast broadband connection in order to access it satisfactorily. Not something we can imagine anyway out here in the back of nowhere >:(
-
What's got my goat more than anything...
Is when I purchased my copy Ancestry already knew that it was going to discontinual their product yet still charged me full price and even had the nerve to offer a 2 year download protection at an extra cost.................
Yes I know that that even with the eventual lose of some of it's features I can still use the main frame of the program....
I brought my copy 2nd December, and received an email, early hours of the 8th to inform me.. Now if I had known this on the 2nd of December I probably would have decided to replace my lost copy of FTM with a different product....
Now, considering the time scale, I could say that I was sold the product under false pretenses so they should really either not sold it to me, or reduced the price to reflect the lose of features, or refund my money!
Must admit I don't know why people are panicking as yes, it will serve as complete stand a lone, like most other software...
But I think I've can safely say, Ancestry conned me big time..
-
What Ancestry is doing is to stop supporting, developing and selling FTM.
That does NOT mean it won't work!
After all, Microsoft no longer support Windows XP, and Windows Vista and support for Windows 7 will end on 12th January 2015!
But many people (millions?!) continue to use XP and Vista, and many millions more will continue to us W7.
I continue t use a fair bit of software that "is no longer supported" - but it still works! ;D
I also continue to use software that "is no longer supported" - whether it was software obtained by purchased cd or downloaded online. I don't understand the panic.......
Cocksie
It isn't panic, it is absolute disgust. Ancestry's 'ideas' people think that desktop software is old hat, and that everyone wants to use tablets and phones. Wrong! What is wrong with wanting to use a decent screen and keyboard so that you can work on something properly. Using FTM offline means that you can work away, adding information found in many places, whether on-line sources, or those scraps of paper that always need organising. On-line it will connect with Ancestry and advise of hints, many times ridiculous ones admittedly, but others it will come up with some gems.
Yes, it will work, but not in the way it should.
-
What Ancestry is doing is to stop supporting, developing and selling FTM.
That does NOT mean it won't work!
After all, Microsoft no longer support Windows XP, and Windows Vista and support for Windows 7 will end on 12th January 2015!
But many people (millions?!) continue to use XP and Vista, and many millions more will continue to us W7.
I continue t use a fair bit of software that "is no longer supported" - but it still works! ;D
I also continue to use software that "is no longer supported" - whether it was software obtained by purchased cd or downloaded online. I don't understand the panic.......
Cocksie
I still use Office 2003 :o :o It works well enough for what I use it for, Word & excel.
Back in 1980 :o :o I did a course called digital software, and formed the view then that computers could be a problem, particularly for people who value their privacy, and security. Call me old fashioned, but......................
-
At the end of the day FTM will continue to work, and continue to work with Ancestry (for at least as long as it works with Windows 8.1/10), if sync'ing of trees stops working you will still be able to export/import Gedcoms to Ancestry or any other site. What is the problem?
I purchased FTM only last month, I needed something on my laptop I could work on offline - the bonus is I got 6 months ancestry access free. When that runs out I will make use of the free sites and still be able to maintain my tree on my laptop - and still keep it up to date on Ancestry (the only reason for this is the hope those relatives I have that I never knew get the bug find me and make contact - or say I am no relative of yours why am I in your tree!). If not ancestry then FindMyPast - assuming they ever allow public trees (it has been 'coming soon' for the last 18 months).
-
... and I must admit - this is probably the last thing you should be worrying about. Microsoft have already stated this is the last version of Windows they will be releasing - do you honestly think they are going to continue to keep this up to date every 3 months (as they currently state) for free? No, it will become a subscription service. Just remember here with the public version of Windows 10 you cannot stop or control Windows updates.... so if in the future you do not want to pay the subscription, you may get an update that stops you being able to use it - it is the way these things are going.
-
There's plenty of time to look at alternatives to FTM, it isn't going to stop working overnight, so there's no need to get all het up because of Ancestry's announcement :) . Family Historian are ofering a discount to FTM users until the end of January next year, and the companion program Ancestral Sources is free. Other software companies have similar deals - I think RootsMagic is one. I'd urge people to think twice about cancelling their subscription as Ancestry has datasets that others don't, so you'll only be losing out if you do.
It has been hinted in a reply to the blog on Ancestry that they may consider working with other software suppliers to restore some of the functionality lost when FTM finally bites the dust. Family Historian on their web page (in very small print though ::) ) indicate they are quite willing to set up links to Ancestry if Ancestry want to, so we can only assume that other software companies will work hard to fill the gap left by FTM. From what I can gather, Ancestry have been taken aback quite a bit by the strength of the reaction to their notice, so will possibly be quite amenable to approaches from other companies for collaboration.
I'm only an FH user, by the way, and have no connection with the company. But I did move to it from FTM years ago :)
-
... and I must admit - this is probably the last thing you should be worrying about. Microsoft have already stated this is the last version of Windows they will be releasing - do you honestly think they are going to continue to keep this up to date every 3 months (as they currently state) for free? No, it will become a subscription service. Just remember here with the public version of Windows 10 you cannot stop or control Windows updates.... so if in the future you do not want to pay the subscription, you may get an update that stops you being able to use it - it is the way these things are going.
I did some research when I was testing the pre-release Windows 10 and it seemed to me that Microsoft promised support for the 'free' Windows 10 upgrade only for the life of the device it was installed on.
There were plenty of stories going around, saying that future versions would be subscription only, on the lines of Office 365. If the trend continues we'll find our devices are eventually just terminals attached to their systems so they can control what we are allowed to do. Room 101 may be just round the next corner . . . ;)
Or we can all switch to Open Source systems :)
Mike.
-
This is a DISASTER.
I have bought many copies of FTM.
But only to get cheap subs to Ancestry.co.uk. :D
I install it on a virtual Windows PC, connect it up to ancestry.co.uk to get the sub to activate, then delete it.
I keep my Database, on Linux, Using Gramps. The data is mine, and my backups are extensive.
I sometimes update my tree on Ancestry via an uploaded GEDCOM. I do this to
allow other researches to find and contact me (they're probably relations, of course).
Having a tree on Ancestry.co.uk also allows easier keying of searches.
My data in the cloud, reliant on a subscription, or someone else's infrastructure?
Not happening.
BugBear
-
I have bought many copies of FTM.
But only to get cheap subs to Ancestry.co.uk.
I think that's what a lot of people did as it was usually a bargain.
-
My data in the cloud, reliant on a subscription, or someone else's infrastructure?
Not happening.
BugBear
And who knows how long the company running "the cloud" will stay in business. What happens to the information, of yours, if they go bust? Will someone else take over, and honour the existing contracts, or will they simply wipe the servers to start a new business "in the cloud".
Not for this ex-technician :-X :-X
-
My data in the cloud, reliant on a subscription, or someone else's infrastructure?
Not happening.
BugBear
And who knows how long the company running "the cloud" will stay in business. What happens to the information, of yours, if they go bust? Will someone else take over, and honour the existing contracts, or will they simply wipe the servers to start a new business "in the cloud".
Not for this ex-technician :-X :-X
Back to pen & paper & rooms full of folders :D :D :D
-
Better yet - keep your data in more than 1 place! ;D
I have a copy on my PC.
Another copy on my laptop ((Vista).
A working copy on Ancestry.
And an older copy on GenesReunited.
And I have a backup external hard-drive!!
They can't all fail?! ???
-
So long as we don't get another Carrington effect :o :o
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_storm_of_1859
Pen & paper for final backup.
-
I never gave up using my binders and paper kept them as my backup.. Years ago on a trip to the Family history library in Salt Lake, My friend and I asked what was the best way to keep everything and they said good old fashion paper.
So Have a bookcase full of binders..
Cheers
Anne
-
Paper?
Not good if there is a fire or flood! ::)
-
Paper?
Not good if there is a fire or flood! ::)
;D :D ::)
-
also have it backed up on an external hard
drive and have my bmd certificates in a fire proof box...
cheers
anne
-
I use FTM on two separate laptops, 6000 miles apart, due to lifestyle and use the online tree (kept private of course ;)) to sync and keep and the two FTMs up to date. With the expiry of the online version in due course, can anyone give me any advice on how to keep my tree synced and up to date when dealing with two laptops (and no, I do not wish to carry one half way around the world each time I travel :P)
Thanks.
YB
-
Hopefully from what people have said we may still be able to sync, at least for the next few months. After that, the best way may be to download the tree from Ancestry onto a flash drive and then upload it onto the laptops. That way you only have to carry a small flash drive.
-
Hopefully from what people have said we may still be able to sync, at least for the next few months.
As ancestry have said, they are supporting the software until the end of 2016, support only goes from 1 Jan 2017.
Therefore, the sync option will remain until the end of 2016. Ancestry's blog posts have specifically said that all functionality will remain until at least the end of 2016.
Which is why I, and many others, wonder why people are panicking so much at this moment. All that stops at the end of 2015 is the sale of the software by ancestry. That doesn't, I suspect, mean that the other sites that sell it will stop, unless ancestry are going to recall all the copies that have been sent to resellers. ;)
-
Hopefully from what people have said we may still be able to sync, at least for the next few months.
As ancestry have said, they are supporting the software until the end of 2016, support only goes from 1 Jan 2017.
Therefore, the sync option will remain until the end of 2016. Ancestry's blog posts have specifically said that all functionality will remain until at least the end of 2016.
Which is why I, and many others, wonder why people are panicking so much at this moment. All that stops at the end of 2015 is the sale of the software by ancestry. That doesn't, I suspect, mean that the other sites that sell it will stop, unless ancestry are going to recall all the copies that have been sent to resellers. ;)
It does mean we have to prepare for our long term plan for storage of our tree, and many will not be happy storing online only.
-
That doesn't, I suspect, mean that the other sites that sell it will stop, unless ancestry are going to recall all the copies that have been sent to resellers.
If they continue to sell it, I hope, for the sake of anyone about to start their family tree, that it will be made clear that support will be withdrawn at the end of 2016.
I don't think people are panicking, they just need to know where they stand. I for one, have been reassured by all the information given here and as long as it can be used as a stand alone product, will
continue to use it.
-
I have to admit its debatable whether the other resellers will make sure people are aware that support will cease at the end of 2016, but I suppose they will just use the legal phrase "caveat emptor", "buyer beware".
The only way the software would ceased to function at the end of 2016 on people's PCs would be if ancestry issued an update that programmed the software to cease functioning as of that date. Now, while I wouldn't necessarily put it past them doing this, I think that they would get so much hassle and trouble over it, its highly unlikely to be the case and I've not seen anything to suggest this.
The "panicking" I refer to are the numerous threats to cancel ancestry subscriptions because of the decision (even though that is spiting their own face probably more than ancestry's) and people panicking to change software immediately. There have been examples on RC as well as elsewhere. The sync option in FTM only started with the 2012 version, prior versions didn't have it, yet from what has been said in some online posts, you'd have thought it had always been available in all versions. ::)
As none of the other software has an option to sync with ancestry, then its nothing different to using FTM after the end of 2016. Should, though, one of the competitors come up with an agreement with ancestry to enable sync'ing with an ancestry tree, then that would be the time to move over.
I still have FTM2006 installed and was up until the beginning of 2013 using it in conjunction with FTM2012. I only switched to Family Historian as I'd lost my FTM2012 CD when I purchased a new laptop. I did eventually find the CD but had already by then decided that FH was a better product for what I wanted. ;D
-
It does seem rather silly people threatening to cancel their subscription to Ancestry - as you say, what will they gain by that? No other site will sync with FTM, so I can't see the point, as whatever you use you will still have to manually update it. It's probably idle threats in a lot of cases, in the hope that Ancestry will reconsider. That won't happen!
-
Someone has apparently started a petition to try and get Ancestry to reconsider, that's as much use as threatening to cancel their subscription. ::) As you say, Ancestry aren't likely to reconsider, they've not backed down on any other major change they have made.
It could have been worse, they could have ended support at the end of this year rather than next year. :-\
-
I use FTM on two separate laptops, 6000 miles apart, due to lifestyle and use the online tree (kept private of course ;)) to sync and keep and the two FTMs up to date. With the expiry of the online version in due course, can anyone give me any advice on how to keep my tree synced and up to date when dealing with two laptops (and no, I do not wish to carry one half way around the world each time I travel :P)
Thanks.
YB
Export from 1 laptop in GEDCOM format (or FTM format?).
Copy that file to a USB stick - or email to oneself - or copy to Dropbox (or similar).
After travel import the saved file to the 2nd laptop.
Easy-peasy!! ;)
-
Thank you groom and KGarrad, I can certainly do that :)
-
hi
Could I ask a question about synching media. If you had an image to FTM does that then upload to Ancestry when you synch?
Andy
-
hi
Could I ask a question about synching media. If you had an image to FTM does that then upload to Ancestry wihen you synch?
Andy
Yes
-
hi
Could I ask a question about synching media. If you had an image to FTM does that then upload to Ancestry wihen you synch?
Andy
Yes
I have wondered about that, and where they would stand legally. The Terms and Conditions of Ancestry do put the onus on the subscriber to ensure they have permission to upload material from sources other than Ancestry but I have wondered how synching would be viewed legally. Somehow I couldn't imagine Findmypast giving permission to upload Parish Register images from their website to Ancestry.
ps Apologies for typos in previous post as I was rushing out.
Andy
-
hi
Could I ask a question about synching media. If you had an image to FTM does that then upload to Ancestry wihen you synch?
Andy
Yes
I have wondered about that, and where they would stand legally. The Terms and Conditions of Ancestry do put the onus on the subscriber to ensure they have permission to upload material from sources other than Ancestry but I have wondered how synching would be viewed legally. Somehow I couldn't imagine Findmypast giving permission to upload Parish Register images from their website to Ancestry.
ps Apologies for typos in previous post as I was rushing out.
Andy
Yikes I have done that!! :o Though my tree is private and I also disabled the button to be found in a search........
-
hi
Could I ask a question about synching media. If you had an image to FTM does that then upload to Ancestry wihen you synch?
Andy
Yes
Ah - I'd always wondered why so many people were carefully uploading pictures to the site.
BugBear
-
Well I have certainly uploaded images to Ancestry that were (paid for and) downloaded from FindMyPast - and indeed have done the same from Ancestry to FindMyPast (I go where the sub is cheapest at the time:0)) - never thought about permissions. Though I can quite happily cite FindMyPast as the source of the data into FTM which then syncs with Ancestry - think I will adopt the 3 wise monkey approach and carry on as if I had not read any of this post.
-
Well I have certainly uploaded images to Ancestry that were (paid for and) downloaded from FindMyPast - and indeed have done the same from Ancestry to FindMyPast (I go where the sub is cheapest at the time:0)) - never thought about permissions. Though I can quite happily cite FindMyPast as the source of the data into FTM which then syncs with Ancestry - think I will adopt the 3 wise monkey approach and carry on as if I had not read any of this post.
And that, m'lud is the case for the defense :)
BugBear
-
I am not sure if this has been posted as I didn't have time to read all 12 pages of this thread, but it's pretty clear that the reason for this decision is that it's not profitable any more. Therefore it will only be revived or extended if a profitable way is found.
http://blogs.ancestry.com/ancestry/2015/12/08/ancestry-to-retire-family-tree-maker-software/
Read the wikipedia article about ancestry.com for some remarkable facts about its history and business if you are interested. This is a very big business.
-
Thanks to everyone for highlighting problems and solutions, most of which have gone over my head. I use Version 8 of FTM and enter everything manually which I like doing as I do actually retain some of the information having typed it out. I was a bit alarmed when I first heard about the withdrawing of support and researchers having to look for other packages to carry on but thought that with a stand alone tree offline it would not affect me as I could not see what support I was getting anyway.
I have just spent the past year transferring and checking entries from my tree on Genes Reunited to FTM (got fed up with people insisting my relatives were theirs and can they look at my tree) so am very relieved to be able to carry on regardless. I do have a World subscriptions to Ancestry but have great difficulty in accessing it at times due to very poor internet, although other sites are not such a problem.
I hope that everyone who changes packages get what they want and others like me (if there are any) will be happy plodding along entering data and photos manually.
Happy New Year to you all.
-
This looks good news
http://blogs.ancestry.com/ancestry/2016/02/02/good-news-for-users-of-family-tree-maker/
Seems as if things might carry on as they are now under Software MacKiev or RootsMagic
-
Yes, I've just had the same message in an email. Hopefully this will put people's minds at rest
-
Good news - it shows that the huge outcry to Decembers announcement has them worried. Maybe they have realised they will lose a lot (and possibly are) of business by not supporting FTM.
It just shows people power sometimes works!
-
yes i've received the message this morning.
-
In hindsight, perhaps it would have been better if they'd sorted out this deal and then announced that MacKiev and RootsMagic were taking over that part of Ancestry, but as far as subscribers were concerned it wouldn't make much difference. By just announcing they were stopping FTM it has caused a people worry and probably lost them a lot of customers. Or have they been forced into this action by the response to the initial announcement?
-
In hindsight, perhaps it would have been better if they'd sorted out this deal and then announced that MacKiev and RootsMagic were taking over that part of Ancestry, but as far as subscribers were concerned it wouldn't make much difference. By just announcing they were stopping FTM it has caused a people worry and probably lost them a lot of customers. Or have they been forced into this action by the response to the initial announcement?
Not sure but I would suggest the outcry surprised them and they had a look around. I do think the FTM is a loss for them and to defray costs through RM and Mackiev is a good business model which allows them to save face
-
I think all Kendall Hust needed to add to his initial announcement was this line from his crisis recovery statement a day later and there wouldn't' have been half the fuss
We are exploring possible relationships with other desktop software solutions that would make it possible for their products to integrate with Ancestry.
After all, it's taken less than 2 months to sort out a deal
-
As Steve says, the December blog post did say they were exploring other possibilities.
I suspect the reason it wasn't organised before the original announcement may partly have been because to have put out feelers to other companies would have let the genie out the bag anyway and with the rumour mill perhaps they thought it better to be more open. They did give over a years notice but unfortunately this is something that has been largely ignored by many in the hysteria that followed and their immediate attempts to find other programs to move too.
Whether the way they decided to do this was the best one or not, I suspect whichever way they decided they may have got the same reaction as many appear not to have read the details closely judging by the posts I have seen, even those relating to yesterday's announcement. ::)
-
Or maybe RootsMagic and Kendall Hurst made the first moves to Ancestry?
Certainly the blog I read on RM implied that they were the instigators?
But then, who can trust a blog?! ;D
It's written by Marketing people - akin to politicians and 2nd-hand car salesmen in my view! ::)
-
Here is a link to the blog KGarrad mentioned
It certainly has more spin than my washing machine
http://www.rootschat.com/links/01h00/
-
I hope the "buy the software and get discounted access to ancestry" deals continue
I've bought several copies of FTM.
My data is recorded in Gramps (https://gramps-project.org/). ;)
BugBear