Gensmarts Software - is it worth the price?

Hey numbat,

Here are some other sites, and a free trial site. Some of the best use Rootsmagic - and swear by it. for $30.00 I think this is the choice. I started with Family Tree maker, still have it - it is the best seller due to marketing. Be sure your package will share the standard GEDCOM files, upload, download, because this is your key to working with other people - sharing large volumes of genealogy information.

Also, check out the FREE Family Search software. Basic stuff, but free.

I don't like FTMs search. It finds too much stuff, and directs you to PAY sites. Since you already have a package, perhaps if you are going to splurge, you should make a decision matrix - put the features across the top, and packages across the left going down. Then rate each feature in each package. If a feature is more important to you, use a multiplier to give it more weight in your decision. If it all comes out even with what you have, stay. If you see a clear winner, go with it.

Also, search Answers - previous answers debate the virtues of the software packages. You should easily be able to find them with a search on "Software", use the advance search and pick HUMANITIES column.

I haven't tried Gensmarts yet, nor have I heard from anyone who has yet. I use Family Tree Maker, and like it okay (it has some problems with multiple file merges). From your description, you could possibly wind up with erroneous information if the profile didn't fit your ancestors, and I don't know that I like that.

Having had to restart my database due to a couple of errors, I would be leery of anything that might make changes based on an assumption.

Just from personal experience, until you can find someone who has tried Gensmarts, I would hold off on the expense.

I like Family Tree for putting the data in the right places.

I enjoy using Ancestry.com for the research. It's expensive, though.

Yes, it is worth the price to find this important information.