Genealogy software
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Genealogy software is computer software used to collect, store, sort, and visualize genealogical data. Genealogy software will often generate kinship charts based on the data entered.
At a minimum, genealogy software tends to collect the following information:
For everyone:
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For marriages:
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For deaths:
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Most programs allow the user to record the source(s) of the information which has been entered. Many allow for additional biographical information, either specific such as occupation or cause of death, or in as a free format note.
There are a wide range of programs offering a host of features.
Contents |
[edit] Features
Certain programs are geared towards specific religions, and will include additional fields relevant to that religion. Other programs focus on certain geographical regions. For example, having a field for the family's coat of arms is only relevant if the family comes from a part of the world that uses them.
Some programs allow for the import of digital photographs. Others focus on the ability to generate kinship charts. Some programs are more flexible than others in allowing for the input of same sex marriages and children born out of wedlock.
There is currently a move to incorporate fields for the input of genealogical DNA test results, though this information can be added into the "Notes" field of almost all genealogy software.
[edit] Sharing
Most genealogy software will allow for the export of data in the GEDCOM format, which can then be shared with people using different genealogy software. Certain programs allow the user to restrict what information is shared, usually by removing information about living people for privacy purposes.
[edit] Types
Main article Comparison of genealogy software
Below is an alphabetical list of genealogy software.
[edit] Windows
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[edit] Macintosh
[edit] Linux[edit] PDA
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[edit] Java (cross-platform)
- @rbre - open 3D genealogy (Java-X3D-P2P): Site for acquiring software. This is a GEDCOM file viewer, relying on other software to produce a GEDCOM file. At an early stage of development, @rbre provides a unique 3D visualization of family trees. The main webpage is only available in French, but Babel Fish translations to English and German are available. {site visited 2006-04-14}
- GeneaPro- based on the GenTech Genealogical Data Model. Geneapro is a multi-user, cross-platform Genealogy database program. Currently in alpha planning stage and not suitable for normal use. Written in Java using the Eclipse Rich Client Platform (RCP), Hibernate persistence, and SQL/JDBC databases (HSQLDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL). {site visited 2006-04-14}
- GenealogyJ a viewer and editor for genealogic data, suitable for hobbyist, family historian and genealogy researcher. GenJ supports the GEDCOM standard, is written in Java and offers many views like family tree, table, timeline, geography and more. {site visited 2006-04-14}
[edit] Web-based utilities allowing GEDCOM input
- Family Trees - Add your family tree via GEDCOM or individually. Show your family at its best. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- Familysearch.org - Free to add your family tree via GEDCOM file online. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- Ancestry.com - Online site to search genealogy records and build your family tree online. (requires subscription) (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- RootsWeb Worldconnect - A free (English only) service allowing you to upload your family tree in GEDCOM format. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- GeneaNet - A free multilingual service allowing you to upload your family tree in GEDCOM format. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- GenCircles (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- TribalPages - Free online genealogy website - to build and store your family tree online, upload photographs and upload your familytree in GEDCOM format. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- WikiTree A world family tree wiki. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- Online Family Tree builder Gorigo: Start an online family tree, and invite family by e-mail to be part of the family tree and extend it. Also allows importing GEDCOM files. (Site visited: 2006-04-14)
- rodovid - allows GEDCOM Import of your family tree
[edit] Webserving (available for multiple operating systems)
- GeneWeb: Site for acquiring software that can be installed on a webserver, in which case Common Gateway Interface mode can be invoked, or on a local PC, in which case it functions as its own webserver. The software is free and has been developed by a group of individuals that appear to be otherwise unaffiliated. GeneWeb is distinguished by the implementation of unique consanguinity and relationship algorithms. {site visited 2006-04-14}
- PhpGedView: Installed on your webserver PhpGedView allows you to view and edit your genealogy on your website. PhpGedView has full editing capabilities, full privacy functions, can import from GEDCOM files, and supports multimedia like photos and document images. PhpGedView also simplifies the process of collaborating with others working on your family tree. Current prerequisites are PHP and MySQL. Learn more at Installation Guide {site visited 2006-04-14}
- phpmyfamily: Site for acquiring software that can be installed on a webserver for building and hosting a genealogy website. The software is free and development is hosted on SourceForge.net. Current prerequisites are PHP and MySQL. {site visited 2006-04-14}
- The Next Generation of Genealogy Sitebuilding© ("TNG"): Retail software that installs on your webserver and manage and display your genealogy data on the Internet, requires MySQL and PHP. {site visited 2006-04-14}
- Geneotree: Opensource free gedcom files PHP MySQL viewer, full dynamic on the Web. Main features : dynamic trees, dynamic cartography, consanguinity lists, cousins' lists, prize list. Large files management, PDF reports, optimized ergonomics, no seizure. {site visited 2006-12-09}
[edit] See also
- Comparison of genealogy software
- Labeling family photos
[edit] External links
- Cyndi's List — Software & Computers category
- Louis Kessler's — Genealogy Software Links
- Open Directory — Society:Genealogy:Products and Services:Software category
- Yahoo Directory — Business and Economy:Shopping and Services:History:Genealogy:Software category