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I purchased my first FTM program before 2005, and thought that it handled family data quite well. As the versions were updated, I found that version 16 with WIN XP did just about everything that one could ask for a genealogy program. I actually wrote to the folks at FTM and said that they had a real nice product, and I would continue to support them by buying the entire set of data they had for sale. At about $300/year, I was pretty happy. Then FTM decided to introduce their latest program that was compatible with WIN 7 and that made my FTM 16 slightly incompatible, but usable. I commented and asked that maybe the program was becoming too sophisticated for an older person (me) and that they could offer a version that worked like FTM 16 - no frills, but very user friendly. Sorry, but no was the answer. So, I continued to buy each new version, hoping that sooner or later, they would offer a more user friendly product. Now, I have purchased FTM 2011, 2012, and 2013 and I just keep getting more and more confused with the windows that tell me a lot, but I have no easy way to import the information.
Frankly, I am fed up with the FTM group- they do not appear to want to make or return to a easier type of program. I came to this site to look for a program that is easier to use, and it appears that maybe the free ones, albeit simpler, may be the way to go.
If I could, and I did not want to access the web features that I am paying for, I would reload my laptop with WIN XP and reload FTM 16, locate a compatible back-up from my archives and go back to work on my family story.Today, I have given up on trying to update any of my files, and I am working on putting the data into GEDCOM and just forget about all the frills that FTM gives.
To be fair, the later versions do offer features that are useful.
Picture handling: Images and Pictures are kept in the original location, with a copy loaded into the program. You won't lose the original.
People look-up: Right on the top bar- Useful if you want to compare data on people
Web Search- brings you to Ancestry.com or other locations that you are authorized (Paid for)- Useful
Individual Box for a person on the right side - A total location for a persons information, except, way too difficult to figure out how to enter the data - The old way, used in FTM 16 was to go to the individual and enter what data needed to be entered, then its done. Now, it is much harder to enter or change information.
In summary, I would not recommend Family Tree Maker (by Ancestry.com) to a friend.
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