Genealogy Software Guide

Rating:
Summary: Great Book If You're Confused About Software!!!
Review: I really liked this book because the author didn't try to sell me on any one particular program, or one a certain type of software I needed. Instead she surveys all of them, and lets you make an informed decisions. There's lots of pictures and printouts so you can *SEE* exactly what the program and reports look like before you spend your money.

The book is a little dated now, but I found it still very helpful. The software reviewed is for IBMs, but there are chapters listing Macintosh software as well, and there is a chapter on utility programs that are useful to family historians. I was really pleased with this book!!

Rating:
Summary: Great book!
Review: I've had genealogy classes with Marthe and this book is typical of her quality of work - thorough, easy to understand, and fun to read!! This book is a must have for anyone who has questions about genealogy programs!!

Rating:
Summary: Does a true genealogist a great disservice.
Review: In the opening chapter the author suggests that she is helping by reviewing many of the top programs and that she is taking an unbiased approach. Then she turns around and says she is limiting it only to Windows software, as that is the most popular. Another lemming jumps off the Microsoft cliff.

If Ms Arends wants to do a true service to her profession, she should review different packages on different platforms. As a user of both Macintosh and Windows, I buy what is best for the job, not what is popular. A true genealogist would want what is best for their needs. Some programs have better presentations, some better user interface, some better reporting, some an overall better database and they reside on various platforms. If you want to limit yourself to Windows, this book does okay. If you are looking for what program is best for you, regardless of platform, it is a waste of money. My suggestion is to join a genealogy mailing list and ask the members which programs they use, version numbers, what they like and dislike about the programs, and what is important to them, the research documentation, presentation, etc.

"Sams Teach Yourself Today e-Genealogy" by Terri Stephens Lamb is a much better, overall book. It has a chapter devoted to how to chose the best program for you. It does not review each one, but lets you know how to go about doing it and gives several websites to help. A little longer approach but you will be happier with the end results.