In addition, new versions of existing software and frequently released updates result in a quagmire of options and choices, so a guide such as this is not only of great value for the computer genealogist, it is absolutely indispensable.
Bearing in mind some concerns that might be paramount to the reader, the author tackles a number of frequently asked questions before launching into her software reviews, answering such key questions as the following: Why use genealogy software? What equipment do I need? How do I choose and evaluate a program? What are the different types of software available to me? And where can I buy this software?
With such questions authoritatively addressed, the author goes on to list each program's major features; but rather than a mere litany of details, functions, and common characteristics, she tries to provide a sense of what the program actually feels like, providing over eighty sample reports and screen shots of the major genealogy programs and software utilities. In this context it is important to note that only IBM compatible software is reviewed here; Macintosh and other platforms, however, are listed and briefly described.
Common to all the reviews are the following elements: (1) Basic information such as the provider's name, address, phone, FAX, e-mail, web site, system requirements, and the cost of the software; (2) Program features including such items as the GUI (interface), standard features, functions, and limits and restrictions (if any); (3) Reports, consisting of types of reports, limits and restrictions, and sample reports; (4) Sources, which include information about the program's sourcing and documenting capabilities; and (5) Bells and whistles, identifying particularly notable functions and capabilities not found in similar programs. Comments--an occasional sixth and final element--are added as needed.
This is the book genealogy computer users have needed all along! But there's even more! Seven appendices include the following: Database Comparison Chart; Genealogy Software Vendors; Genealogy File Archives; Internet Software Resources; Programs Not Reviewed; The Mystery of GEDCOM; and Computer Genealogy Publications. And just to tidy up, the book ends with a glossary and an indispensable index. This is definitely the book we've been waiting for! Marthe Arends has been involved in genealogy for nearly two decades and is presently the editor of the computer genealogy newsletter Online Pioneers. She has lectured widely on the subject of computer genealogy and has contributed articles to numerous genealogy publications. A former Fidonet genealogy BBS SysOp, Marthe currently teaches genealogy classes on the Internet and is active in the genealogy online community.
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!!
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.
