I agree with others who've pointed out that all of the top software programs have their pros and cons. I've found RootsMagic to be both user-friendly and flexible. When I started using it, back in version 4, I chose it because: 1. It has master source templates based on Evidence Explained and also allows for those to be copied and customized in the cases where the models don't quite fit a particular source. Additionally, it lets the user create completely new templates. 2. It handles a wide variety of foreign-language diacritical marks, not just the common ones, better than its competitors did when I chose the program. 3. Customer support is excellent. Bruce Buzbee, the program's author, and his staff monitor the forums and mail list and are quick to jump in if more experienced users don't answer a particular question in a reasonable time.  I once received a reply from Bruce himself within ten minutes of posting my question to the mail list. 4. It's designed to work well with FamilySearch and sync with it if desired. Since I began using RootsMagic, the company has produced 40-some free webinars demonstrating and explaining various features of the program. They can be attended in real time or downloaded at one's convenience from the web site. I've watched all of them and found them useful for picking up tips and techniques I hadn't thought of or remembered from reading the built-in helps and the manual. I've also come to appreciate the organizational features of RootsMagic, such as the To-Do List, logs, research notes fields, etc., and the shareable features it offers, such as the ability to create CDs and DVDs as well as web pages from one's database, which RootMagic hosts at no charge on its web site. I have no connection with the company, other than being a satisfied customer, but I'd encourage your cousin to download the free version and watch a few of the *getting started* webinars. Linda Johnson _________________ Cynthia wrote: Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2013 19:11:00 -0500 From: Cynthia Swope <alfonsa@cynthiaswope.com> Subject: [TGF] Advice on software for non mac Cc: Transitional-Genealogists-Forum@rootsweb.com Message-ID: <50F49E94.4080601@cynthiaswope.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed A cousin has asked what she should buy. She's never used any software. I've looked at reviews and seeking opinions on Family Tree Maker 2012, the program I'd suggest to her from what I've read (it was editor's pick in PCMag). I use Reunion-would recommend it, but she doesn't have a Mac. I want to provide her GEDCOM of our shared family, and want to be able to upload to her separately all the images associated so that she has them as well. I want her to buy 'the best' but recognize that some are easier than others. She'll be adding her progeny and branches to a substantial study but I don't want to limit her choice to her being a beginner to software because what she's receiving is serious and complete study that will provide a sort of template for her. Am I right that Family Tree Maker 2012 is the best? Thanks for any input Cynthia

My strong preference is "The Master Genealogist" but you must truly consider the various subquestions as there is no "best" software for everyone. When I first began using "The Master Genealogist" it was frustrating to learn there wasn't "one" correct way to do things within the software. That is it's strength (flexibility and documentation) but some people are happiest with a "one template fits all" program. "The Master Genealogist" may take a bit more time to learn ALL it's functions. It has a basic user mode that is "out of the box" friendly but the more advanced features are definitely complex. I started with PAF (Personal Ancestral File) when it first came on the market (so many years ago) and I have used all sorts of programs over the last 20 plus years. I wish I had migrated to "The Master Genealogist" when it first came on the market so I would highly recommend it, but each person has to choose what is most important to them. There is NOT one program that is "Best" or we wouldn't have such variety. Denise in Oregon _________________ > > Cynthia wrote: > > A cousin has asked what she should buy...... > Am I right that Family Tree Maker 2012 is the best? > > Thanks for any input > Cynthia