Genealogy has grown into one of the most popular hobbies across the world. People want to understand their roots, trace their ancestors, and preserve family stories for future generations. Among the tools available for this purpose, Family Tree Maker stands out as one of the most reliable and comprehensive software solutions. Over the years, it has evolved with advanced features, user-friendly designs, and seamless connectivity options. One of its most notable versions, Family Tree Maker 2017, brought several improvements that made the process of discovering and preserving family history more efficient and enjoyable.
What Is Family Tree Maker?
Family Tree Maker is a genealogy software designed to help users organize, research, and visualize their family histories. It allows you to build a family tree by adding individuals, relationships, photos, historical records, and personal notes. The software provides tools to generate charts, reports, and timelines, offering a clear view of family connections over generations.
Initially developed by Banner Blue Software in the 1980s and later acquired by Ancestry, Family Tree Maker has long been a trusted name in family history research. Today, it continues to thrive under the management of Software MacKiev, which has enhanced the program with modern updates, better integration with online databases, and improved user support.
Features That Make Family Tree Maker Stand Out
Family Tree Maker offers a powerful combination of research tools and visual aids. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced genealogist, its interface makes building your family tree simple and intuitive. Some of its key features include:
- Easy Data Entry: You can quickly input names, birth dates, marriages, and other vital details, ensuring accurate records.
- Media Integration: Attach photos, documents, audio files, and videos to each person in your tree to make your research more engaging.
- Chart and Report Generation: Family Tree Maker provides a wide range of charts, including pedigree charts, descendant charts, and family group sheets.
- Web Integration: It syncs with online services like Ancestry.com, making it easier to search for records and historical documents directly from within the software.
- Mapping Capabilities: The software includes a mapping feature that allows you to track family migration patterns and locate ancestral places.
Family Tree Maker 2017: What’s New?
When Family Tree Maker 2017 was launched, it marked a significant step forward in genealogy software technology. This version focused on improving data synchronization, collaboration, and overall performance. Some of its most appreciated features include:
- FamilySync Technology: This new feature replaced the older TreeSync, allowing users to sync multiple computers with their Ancestry trees. Now, your family tree can stay up to date across devices and family members.
- Color Coding: One of the most beloved additions in Family Tree Maker 2017 is the ability to color-code ancestors, making it easier to distinguish different family lines and generations at a glance.
- Photo Editing and Management: The software improved its photo-handling capabilities, giving users better control over media organization.
- Integration with Ancestry and FamilySearch: These partnerships expanded access to billions of historical records, making it easier to verify data and discover new family connections.
- Improved Performance and Stability: The 2017 edition was optimized to run smoothly even for users with large family trees containing thousands of individuals.
How Family Tree Maker 2017 Enhances Genealogy Research
The updates in Family Tree Maker 2017 made genealogical research more interactive and connected. FamilySync enabled families to work together on a shared tree, so relatives could collaborate regardless of where they lived. This feature not only promoted data consistency but also encouraged family participation in the process of discovery.
Furthermore, color coding allowed researchers to organize their work more efficiently. For instance, one color could represent paternal ancestors and another maternal ones. This visual aid made identifying lineage patterns much simpler, especially for large trees.
By integrating seamlessly with online archives like Ancestry and FamilySearch, Family Tree Maker 2017 opened up endless possibilities for finding official documents—such as census records, birth certificates, or immigration lists. Users could attach these discoveries directly to their tree, creating a robust and authentic digital archive of their family’s story.
Why Choose Family Tree Maker?
With so many genealogy tools available, Family Tree Maker remains a top choice due to its combination of power, flexibility, and ease of use. It caters to everyone—from hobbyists exploring their roots to historians compiling detailed family archives. The software’s ability to merge traditional genealogy research with digital technology makes it a timeless resource.
Whether you want to share your family tree online, print beautiful reports for reunions, or simply keep your heritage alive for future generations, Family Tree Maker 2017 provides everything you need in one comprehensive package.
Conclusion
Exploring your ancestry is a meaningful journey that connects the past with the present. Family Tree Maker continues to be an invaluable companion in this adventure, offering tools that help you uncover, document, and preserve your family’s legacy. With the advancements introduced in Family Tree Maker 2017, users gained more control, collaboration, and creativity in their genealogical projects. If you’re ready to explore where you come from, there’s no better way to start than with Family Tree Maker.