RootsMagic and Ancestry

[Jebber]

RootsMagic have announced that data and pictures can now be transferred between RootsMagic on your computer and your trees on  Ancestry.

[KGarrad]

Needs the new RootsMagic version 7.5

[RevHead]

Hi KGarrad

I'm interested to know your thoughts on whether RootsMagic is worth investing in. I'm looking fairly new to genealogy and have my trees on ancestry.com but would prefer to have it stored on my own hard drive.

Jebber - do you use this software app and if so what's your experience?

Thanks in advance

[KGarrad]

I have been using RootsMagic for about 10 years now - and I am perfectly happy with it.

You can start with the free RootsMagic Essentials.
Try it out and see what you think.

http://www.rootsmagic.com/Essentials/

[RevHead]

Thanks KGarrard

Is it the only local software app you use or is it part of a suite of apps? Is the connection with ancestry.com as good as it appears on the brochure?

[KGarrad]

I use the PC software - not an app!
I don't connect to Ancestry, so can't comment about that side of things.

"app" is a term invented by Apple - and I refuse to have anything to do with their products.

[Jebber]

I use the software on my laptop, I don't have the latest version because, like  KGarrad I don't connect to Ancestry, I choose not have a tree on there.
 
I have the app on my iPad for the convenience of having my complete tree to refer to  when out. The disadvantage of the app you,  can't edit it, so if needed, I make notes to add information to my tree on the laptop and regularly transfer the updated version to the iPad.

I keep several trees on the app, this is convenient for showing computerless friends what progress I make on their trees.

I also carry RootsMagic on a memory stick, this I can plug into any computer and edit my tree, or share sections with relatives.

[RevHead]

Thanks KGarrard and Jebber, I think I'll buy the full-fledged software based on your recommendation.

Jebber - I was interested in your comment that you've chosen not to have a tree on ancestry.com - have you had a negative experience(s) there or do you have other tools that suit you better? Also, I was interested in your comment that you research and record family trees for friends. I hadn't even thought about doing that (I've been too engrossed in my own family's for the last few months of getting into genealogy) but now you've mentioned that idea (and that RootsMagic allows you to keep multiple trees) I'm going to keep it in mind.

Much thanks

[ggrocott]

I would always suggest you keep some sort of backup and not rely on keeping a tree on a website, particularly not Ancestry given the problems they are having at the moment!