Family Tree Maker 2009

The Generations Network (or TGN) is the company that produces the popular Windows genealogy program called Family Tree Maker. It is also the parent company of Ancestry.com (and a number of similar sites in other countries), MyFamily.com, and others. The company's web site at www.FamilyTreeMaker.com now displays the following words:

Family Tree Maker 2009

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting on your family tree, Family Tree Maker 2009 can help you create a family tree faster, easier, and better than ever before. The end result is a family history that you and your family will treasure for years to come.

What’s New?

• Create essential genealogy reports (Register and Ahnentafel)
• Share your family tree with several new charting options: hourglass, bow tie, and fan. You can also use custom templates or design your own.
• Streamline your data entry with one-click editing of individuals from any workspace in the software
• Simplify sourcing with “cut and paste” source citations
• Track—and print—your ancestors’ migration paths on interactive maps
• Enjoy faster startup times and improved file performance
• Find your ancestors more easily with the improved Web Search. You can even choose to ignore irrelevant results.

And don’t forget the features you’ve come to rely on:

        Dynamic user interface that lets you quickly switch between important features

Retail: USD 39.95

SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
Minimum system requirements:

Operating system: Windows XP / Vista
Processor: 500 MHz Intel Pentium II (or equivalent)
Hard disk space: 400 MB for installation
Memory: 256 MB of RAM
Display: 800 x 600 resolution for monitor
2X CD-ROM (required for installation)

Recommended system requirements:

Operating system: Windows XP/Vista
Processor: 1GHz Intel Pentium III (or equivalent)
Hard disk space: 400 MB for installation
Memory: 512 MB of RAM
Display: 1024 x 768 resolution for monitor
32X CD/CD-R (required for installation)
All online features require Internet access
Training video and Our History in Images require DVD-ROM drive

I also noticed that Amazon.com is now taking orders for Family Tree Maker 2009 in three different versions:

Family Tree Maker 2009 Essentials $29.99

Family Tree Maker 2009 Deluxe $69.99

Family Tree Maker 2009 Platinum $99.99

Notice the statement of "This item will be released on August 26, 2008."

Comments

[Derryman]

What about those of us who are staying with FTMv16? After such a bad experience with the new version can we justify throwing any more money at upgrades?

[Gail Forsythe]

I had FTM 2001 and updated to 2008 last year. Now I'm lost as an Easter Egg!!!! I can't work the program, and wish I had not changed. I'm looking for a way to convert back to 2001.

[Carol Steinmetz]

I agree with the above comments, FTM2008 a bummer. I updated then went back to v16 FTM. Why not make improvements to v16 and forget FTM2008 and probably FTM2009. I'm looking for a new program too if your programs don't improve.

[Michelle Wetzel]

I am running FTMv16 and have 2008 still sitting in the box. After hearing all of the bad reviews and problems I chose not to install. Will I still get the free upgrade? And do I really want to chance it not knowing the possible problems with 2009?

[Bill Godwin]

I too was a happy user of FTM 16, but had terrible troubles with FTM 2008 and its updates. Their support people didn't have clue how to handle the problems. A letter to the president of the company didn't even get the courtesy of a form letter reply. So I dumped FTM and converted my data over to Roots Magic (as did several others in our family), and have been quite happy ever since. FTM up through version 16 was a wonderful product, but the company seems to have lost focus in its drive to sell more Ancestry.com subscriptions by integrating FTM so tightly, and the newer version shows it. Perhaps they have finally gotten all the instability problems solved, but it's too late for me -- I'm sold on Roots Magic now and won't switch back.

[Denny Mahoney]

I've been using FTM2005 and when I upgraded to that it took numerous phone calls and emails to get the PDF feature and the connection to update my tree information at there web site to work again.

Since then whenever they came out with new upgrades, I would read all of the blogs first and when I saw all the problems everyone was having, I never upgraded again.

Plus, most of the "new" features that they have listed for the last couple of upgrades were for features without any real substance, just bells and whistles.

If it ain't broke, don't fix it!

[Kathy Read]

I sure am glad I read all of your comments. I have just upgraded to V16 and thought the new version looked OK but now I think I will just stay with what I have. Thank you everyone.

[Arlene Miles]

I have been using the FREE PAF from JC LDS and it does the basics, what can I expect from 2009 Family Tree Maker (middle price range)? I haven't done extensive work on the family yet but would like a program that was easy from the get go.

[Judith Arnn-Knight]

I echo the comments of the others about the functionality of FTM after version 16; I did not update to the newer version after reading so many negative reports and after writing the company several times about some differences in the way things had been changed. I was particularly concerned about viewing the FTM collection of disks I had. At the time the "new" program came out there was not a plan to continue supporting these with a separate utility program; there were such programs for Windows through 98 but I run XP. This meant I would have to run the older version of FTM anyway to access them [this info from their systems folks; it may not be true now, I have not checked]. I had used FTM since the mid-1990s and bought most upgrades.

I downloaded the free Legacy and ran parallel systems for a while and decided I liked Legacy better regardless of any changes to FTM. I then upgraded to the "deluxe" version and cannot say enough good things about the functionality and availability of reports, etc from Legacy.

Maybe all the things I like about Legacy were available in FTM but I never discovered them after 12 years of using their software.

If anyone is looking for a new system--try the free Legacy first. I am not sure I even needed the deluxe edition but it was not expensive [?$30] so I purchased it.
TGN really blew it when they changed their software so radically; at least for me they did. I do not have the time or inclination to relearn software when I have had it forever and

[Hugin in Texas]

The most amazing thing is that TGN has had serious consumer relations problems for a long time and takes little action to correct them. FTM 2008 is only one case, there are others that cause TGN to be viewed as a money-hungry company that does not listen to, and cares little for, their customers. Perhaps this brand of corporate leadership is a sign of our times (Enron, Bear Stearns, GMC, etc.)and will continue until competitors entice away customers the TGN house of cards comes crashing down.

[Charles]

I too did not upgrade past FTM 16 after reading all the comments. I have yet to see a positive one, even from Beta testers of 2008.

As the for parent company, there is an approach that apparently works for some companies. They don't worry about current customers--for one thing, good on-shore support is expensive, and in this case, it seems to me it would be difficult to outsource genealogical software to India or the Phillipines.

All this kind of company cares about is if they can add at least one new customer for every old one they lose, and then for every additional new customer, they are ahead of the game.

[Judith Bisig]

I have always used FTM and purchased the 2008 addition. There was a learning curve in the beginning, but I found the support people very helpful. I fully utilize the program now and love it.

[Stephen J. Danko]

I purchased FTM2008 when it was first released. There was a bit of a learning curve and I did not completely switch from FTM16 to FTM2008 until after I had completed a class on FTM2008 with Cindy Rowzee at GenClass.com. I've really enjoyed using FTM2008, and I'm looking forward to receiving my copy of FTM2009.

[Barbara Gressel]

I am using FTM 2008. I really like it. I had no trouble installing it and I felt the learning curve was reasonable. I was sad to see that some of the reports were missing but they have been replaced with similar ones. I am looking forward to FTM2009.

[Eileen Souza]

I had used FTM thru all its versions for ten years and was ready to move to a different product before I upgraded to FTM 2008. I am still with FTM 2008 and looking forward to FTM 2009. The new online merge and sourcing feature has been a life-savor for me. I now have a source and digital image for almost every fact in my database with little to no typing on my part. As an arthritis sufferer, this has been a real benefit. Sourcing is so much easier in the new version of FTM. I did not experience many issues nor did I miss anything significant from prior versions.

[Lois Byrd]

I have been through all the versions of FTM. It took a bit of work to adapt to 2008 but I wouldn't go back to the older versions. The ease of navigation is marvelous. I, too, am looking forward to FTM2009. As a sign in my office says "Stay as you are, don't ever change and you will cease to exist." I am glad that I changed!

[Jac W]

I have FTM 2005. Can someone who has version 16 or 2008 tell me whether either of them have good book publishing capabilities? I have looked at the publishing tool on ancestory.com but find it limiting with the descandant trees etc but otherwsie love it's ease of use. I was hoping maybe ver 16 or 2008 had a similiar tool within it that I could use to publish a family tree book. Thanks,

[Diane Frankel]

I started with FTM version 2 and now I am using 16 AND 2008. I use both because 2008 is missing some report ability. I hope they are working on fixing that issue. I had no trouble installing 2008 on a Vista OS. 2008 is definitely a learning curve because it is very much different from previous versions, but it's worth the effort. Give 2008 a chance and perhaps 2009 will be even better.

[Annette Carroll]

Does anyone know if you can still print a "Book" complete with Cover page, Table of Contents, several different reports and an index in the new FTM 2009? I am still using FTM Version 16 and love it. I realize that I may at some point need to change, and wonder if the new FTM 2009 has the above options.
Thanks so much for your help,
Annette Carroll

[Jerry]

I am using the 2008 version, and as a result of my confusion, I've lost interest in genealogy for a while. I thought I could upgrade easily, but it's taking too much time to learn how to use it all. I'm sure I could figure it out eventually, but my time is precious. I'm afraid to get the 2009 version, for fear it will be even worse. How I'd love to figure out how to revert back to my 2005 version without having to manually type everything in again.

[Linda]

I started with the original FTM and have upgrade every time a new one came out. I paid for the upgrade to 2008 but had nothing but PROBLEMS. I removed it from my computer - put it back in the box & put FTM 16 back on my computer.
I'm afraid to get the 2009 version, for fear it will be even worse than the 2008.

[Renee]

I received FTM 2008 as a Christmas gift last year and upgraded from 2005. I was very disappointed with it. I found it hard to navigate and lost some data. When I upgraded to a new computer with Vista the FTM 2008 refused to install. Luckily I still had the 2005 installation disc and a backup of my information that had been on the 2005 program. No thanks to 2009! I'm going to try TMG.

[Jonathan Hall]

I've been a user of FTM since is first came out and always purchased the next version when they were released. Up until 2008, FTM was a great product, as I would also purchase the World Family Tree CD packages as well. When 2008 came out, I lost all the wonderful features and the ability to use WFT CD's. Calls to the support desk left me frustrated with there LACK OF support. Frankly if 2009 does not have the feature from V16 then its no longer worth while staying with FTM.

[Lynn]

I have used FTM through several versions and I am currently using FTM 2008. I actually found it simple to understand and use as well as I like many of the new functions within FTM 2008 (e.g., ability to attach a single source citation to multiple facts). Although I definitely miss some of the reports and functionality from prior version, which I hope return in FTM 2009.

Unfortunately I did experience some significant challenge with my source records, when upgrading from v16 to 2008, which I did not originally realize. When upgrading all sources are combined if they contain the same source citation detail and text ... which could make sense if it did not combine source citation that had blank text fields. To make a long story short, I unfortunately needed to delete most of my source citations because they undesirably linked several thousand facts to the same source title. It is going to take many several years and many thousands of hours to re-source my file.

For the long story version; to deal with prior limitation in FTM sourcing capabilities, that caused duplicate citation detail and text information to be printed in reports. I choose to record source citation detail and text solely within the source citation associated with an individual’s name (e.g., citation text from a census would include name, birth date, birth location, occupation, etc.) and solely recording the source title on all other facts for that particular individual. This allowed the reports I shared to family members to be easier to review, or at the very least considerably shorter source section. After the upgrade, all source titles that did not have citation detail and/or text combined. If you took a similar approach, that is something you probably want to check is how 2009 will handle your source upgrades.

I consider creating my family genealogy as a long-term project and ideally a long-term relationship with FTM (i.e., I am hoping all my current efforts with FTM make sense longer-term), although I will consider looking at other software if things do not improve.

[Diane]

I too have used FTM for more than 10 years, and while I didn't upgrade EVERY time a new version came out, I did continue to upgrade. The last version I bought prior to FTM2008 was 2005, but I did buy 2008. I regret spending the money for 2008. It's a mess, it's absolutely horrible to work with, the slowness and crashes were maddening. I quit using it and went back to FTM 2005, at least I can FIND things, it doesn't crash and it doesn't take 5 minutes to load up! I have a pretty robust system, so it sure wasn't an issue with my pc's capabilities.

Some of the ideas in 2008 were good, but the execution was atrocious. I'm hesitant to bother with version 2009 if they haven't addressed any of the issues from 2008. TGN needs to PAY ATTENTION to those of us who have been pretty loyal, otherwise we'll just find something else.

[Ed]

Well, I was happy to upgrade to FTM 2008. Sure, at first there were some problems and some of the most common reports were not initially available. But those things have been fixed for quite some time now.

The complaint most people have is that it is so different than prior versions. It is!! FTM 2008 is a totally new program. So, there is a small learning curve due to the new programming techniques used. This new programming allows so much more to be done with the software than ever before. Don't ask me how they did it - I'm not a programmer, but one can see it whenever they come across an input field and notice slightly grayed text suggesting what to put in the box. The common fields in FTM 2008 for Date, Place and Description, for example, will show such text in gray until it has been filled with an entry. There is a lot of embedded code in new software, not just FTM 2008, these days.

FTM 2008 is much like Microsoft Vista, in that the software does a lot more than folks know and is so different than what they have been using for a long time. Too, both the Vista OS and FTM 2008 suffer from users Internet complaints! It very easy to complain. For every 50+ thumbs down messages from those who do not want to take the time to learn something new and different, there may only be one thumbs up review. That would be my review here!

I strongly recommend to those who want to be up-to-date with Ancestry.com and their software, FTM, bite the bullet, so-to-speak, and learn FTM 2008, or go to the upcoming FTM 2009, which will have even more features, and is based on FTM 2008. FTM 16, FTM 2004, FTM 2005 are all in the past. If you prefer any of the prior versions, great! But I will never go back, and it would nice if folks who want to stay with past versions not knock the new software. But, I'm not naive, I know it ain't going to happen in my life time! :)

[Laxmidas Sawkar]

I was thinking of upgrading to FTM 2009. Currently I use FTM V.16 and had no problems. Once FTM 2009 is realeased please publish a review and want to know whether this one can create a "Book" as it has capability in V.16. I really want somebody to tell me it is worthwhile spending another $30.00 or more.
Thanks.

[Athena]

>>The complaint most people have is that it is so different than prior versions.<<

Actually, the complaint most people have is that they are unable to do so many things that were available in prior versions; things they have come to rely upon.

It's okay for some people to say "Well I never used [whatever] anyway" but where does that leave the people who *did* invest in data CDs, who *did* produce books, who *did* store non-images in their scrapbooks? Why denigrate their requirements?

The primary purpose of a genealogy program should be to help the researcher plan, execute, and record his research -- not stay current with Ancestry.

[Donna Dotts]

I recently had my computer worked on and when it was returned to me I discovered that the person who worked on it had 'upgraded' it with a Google program called Picasa and now I am unable to open a single one of several hundred photos & documents I had loaded into my Family Tree Maker 2008. All I get is a notation that reads Bad Picture. Can anyone tell me why and what I can do about it? The techie who worked on my computer has no idea what to do and I have yet to find anyone who can help me.

[Dick Eastman]

---> ...'upgraded' it with a Google program called Picasa and now I am unable to open a single one of several hundred photos & documents

Uninstall Picasa.

Click on START, select CONTROL PANEL, select ADD/REMOVE PROGRAMS, click on Picasa and select REMOVE (UNINSTALL).

[Bill]

So when is the new free version 2009 coming? Has anyone recieved it yet? Does it work? Have they restored any of the things like the book feature from v16???
If not I am going to Roots Magic. this will be my last attempt at FTM.

[Henry Jervis]

I purchased FTM 2008 when it was first released in the UK and apart from a few hiccups found it to be really excellent!!
As I am approaching 80 and did not touch a computer before 1970 I have found FTM 2008 to be a breeze!
I am now looking forward to FTM 2009.
As for the support, that's magnificent.

[Henry Jervis]

I purchased FTM 2008 when it was first released in the UK and apart from a few hiccups found it to be really excellent!!
As I am approaching 80 and did not touch a computer before 1970 I have found FTM 2008 to be a breeze!
I am now looking forward to FTM 2009.
As for the support, that's magnificent.

[Henry Jervis]

Re my previous comment I started with computers when I was 70 not in 1970.
See I am getting old.

[Mike]

I especially enjoyed the plug:

"What’s New?

"Create essential genealogy reports (Register and Ahnentafel)"

Talk about selling a bug fix as a new feature...

I am too far into 2008 to return to an older working version. I'll have to upgrade just to get back to where I was. Hope their new "Web Search" feature is back to what it used to be several years ago.

[Cynthia Reed]

I too was lost for a while and had both FTW16 and FTW2008 loaded on my computer. Often I would work in both making sure I kept both updated. All of a sudden the search areas, where I had my most trouble, became much more clear. I had been used to the search that gave me lines and lines of names even close to what I was searching for. I havent gone back to the 16 version in a long long time. I am looking forward to seeing what they have done with the new version. I have also been using the new search feature lately and have at long last come to really enjoy the searches. I have also enjoyed finding my great grandmother. She was there all the time but the new search feature has helped tremendously. I will be happy to help anyone who might have some questions. I don't know everything about the program but I should be able to help some.

[Sher Keith]

I just checked Ancestry.com website and they are not offering the 2009 version. But Amazon has 2 or 3 2009 version. Am I missing something here?? Was going to upgrade to 2009 but wondering why it's not on Ancestry website?

Thanks

[Dick Eastman]

Amazon is accepting PRE-ORDERS.

When I talked with one of the Family Tree Maker developers last Friday, they were still getting the final product out the door. The software was finished two or three weeks ago. Now they are making the disks, printing the users manual, creating the packaging, etc. All those things are required with any software product that is packaged and shipped to customers by mail order.

As of a few days ago, Amazon had fine print that stated they expect to ship the product in 2 or 3 weeks.

- Dick Eastman

[Barry]

Bought FMT16 with 9 months free access. Paid a premium for the program. Alas, went to use and told had to give a credit card. I bought the higher price unit $80.00 VS. $29.95 CDN for free access but they want to bill. Say they won't but do not trust as thjey don't tell you when you buy program credit card needed.
Do not buy thier product. Go to the Mormon web sight and get their program for free.
Always remember "BUYER BEWARE"

[Michelle Pfister]

Hi everyone. I am the Senior Product Manager and business owner of Family Tree Maker in the US and Canada. I've read through all the comments here and I have a few thoughts:
1) Please continue to give us feedback! We're listening to your thoughts and ideas regarding the product, and we're prioritizing our work based on what our users want and need. If you were a 2008 user who was unhappy, we invite you to take advantage of the free upgrade offer we just emailed to registered users of Version 2008. We are getting very positive feedback from the 300 beta testers and others who have used the product. We will always have more to do in the product, but we feel we've come a long way. Take a look.
2) Regarding the free upgrade offer, there was so much interest in the new product that it brought down our online store. We're taking steps to remedy the situation, and all registered 2008 users will receive a new email within the next few days. This upgrade is the same package that new purchasers will receive. It's our way of saying "thank you" to our loyal 2008 customers.

[Michelle Pfister]

One more thing... You can see the long list of new features added to Family Tree Maker here: http://blogs.ancestry.com/ancestry/2008/08/28/family-tree-maker-2009-release/

[Fred]

Hi Michelle Pfister Senior Product Manager for FTM,
I think it very odd that you have 300 beta testers but never contacted those that wrote extensive reviews on FTM 2008 to include them in the beta testing.
I even went to the trouble of documenting over 100 issues and mailed them to FTM of which I never did receive a reply.

Fred in Va

[Linda Pound]

I have used all the FTM versions and am now operating 2008. I am happy with it except for one major problem. When I generate a Register Report, the formatting (censuses, etc.) in my Notes goes haywire. FTM's customer support doesn't seem to have any idea how to prevent it. Anybody else encountered this?

[Max]

I bought FTM 2008 in May as I finally decided to research my family. A genealogist friend had recommended FTM 16, which I couldn't find, so I got 2008. As a beginner, I found the software to be clunky and a bit unstable. In fact, it crashed while I was installing it. That was probably an omen. I'm usually pretty quick to learn software programs, but I just managed with this. I was less than impressed with it. Then in August I had to get a new computer with Vista. After installing FTM 2008 on the new computer, it refuses to work. I've uninstalled and reinstalled, downloaded patches and Service Pack 3, and it quits working in the middle of installing the service pack. Their tech support is poor and slow. Meanwhile, like an earlier post, I'm losing interest in genealogy as I sit here waiting for FTM 2009 to arrive so I can see if it works. My expectations for 2009 are very low, based on my experience with 2008. If 2009 continues the tradition of being complete junk, I'll go with Legecy or RootsMagic and wash my hands of all FTM products.

[Matt]

I've been using FTM since about 1997 and had been happy with the program, always upgrading, although some of the newer versions were minimal in changes, but you still could always expect a good solid piece of software, stable as could be. Then I got 2008, had it for over a year, and the only time I would actually use it was to generate reports (after the patch came out that let me do so). So I had this brand new buggy software, crashed all the time, but at least it generated good sourced reports when it worked, and it was nice not having the same source cited over and over and over. When it worked I was happy, well the other day, it hadn't been working like I thought, some notes were absent on the report. I felt I lost my money on that one till I heard about the free upgrade. I really am anticipating the new release. I will cut them some slack though, they realize they made a horrible mistake, although I always thought it was a step in the right direction, just poorly executed, and they are trying to make things right, this I give them credit for with the free upgrade. That's called good business, own up to your mistakes and move on. But I hope they realize how critical this "second chance" is for them... and come out with one killer program. Let's only hope.

[Devon]

I have been using FTM since it came out, and upgraded regularly, bought 2008 and suddenly I cannot find anything, there is no way to organise or to search by name and date of birth, especially when you have 5,000 names entered!
I am reverting back to 2005 asap, and maybe leave FTM altogether!
It does not work well with Vista either :(

[S D]

I started with FTM 16, nice proggie, but lacked the data control I sought. FTM 2008 was pretty, but severely buggy, and lacked features I came to like on ver. 16. the Maps were good, but the place database file was not editable by we the users (c'mon, there was no Boston, Massachusetts, USA in 1760, right?). I currently run FTM 16 alongside TMG 7.0 (love the control over data, helps consistency). Hopefully 2009 will be more akin to a merge of 16 and 2008. If not, well, TMG already has half my heart. I hope it can integrate better with my files on ancestry. Data push-pull would be nice instead of having to export a whole GED from FTM, uploading it to ancestry, and reattaching sources every time I change my local copies. (already have enough fun with exporting from TMG to FTM). :)

[Gene]

I have been using Family Tree Maker 16 for a couple of years and like it. Before that I used several earlier versions of Family Tree Maker. I wanted to upgrade to a more robust version of Family Tree Maker but all I have read about Family Tree 2008 and 2009 are bad things. I am steering clear of upgrading in the Family Tree Maker line of products.

In your opinion what are the best alternatives to Family Tree Maker. I have about 700 documents embedded in Family Tree Maker 16 and 1500 relatives in the software. My file is about a gig in size.

The reason I wanted to upgrade is that I randomly get an error message saying there was a serious error while trying to close Family Tree 16. Then the next time I open the file and close it, it works fine. It is an odd bug.

Thank you.

[Rhonda]

I just read Gene's comment about an error message while closing FTM 16. For the past week, I've been getting a Dr. Watson error. I wonder why all of a sudden this is happening? Does anyone have any ideas?
Thank you

[Jack]

Michelle Pfister wrote:

"I've read through all the comments..."

I've got a nickel that says you didn't.

"We are getting very positive feedback from the 300 beta testers..."

This seems a bit odd, considering it's been out for a few days now, and every single review I've seen is negative.

Why on earth didn't you concentrate on returning the missing items BEFORE adding all these flashy new features? The long promised book feature from v16 is STILL NOT IN 2009!!! I just checked, and when I click on Books->Start a New Project, it takes me to that same place online, where you expect to make more money off of us.

Well, I'm done. There are plenty of other good programs out there. And as for your "free upgrade", well, since you took my money for a broken 2008 that I never used, I figure we're even.

[Zadruga Guy]

Jack, what I have read from TGN about FTM2009 makes it clear that the book feature is something to be added at as patch later on. So if you read something that lead you to expect it to already have that functionality, I guess we read different things.

I fail to see what the urgency is in adding it RIGHT NOW since you can use the FTM data to create a book using the online AncestryPress functionality FOR FREE. You only have to pay Ancestry.com additional money if you want Ancestry.com to print the book for you. And even if FTM2009 already had its own book feature, you would still have to pay someone to print the book at the end, unless you just burned the book file into CDs that you made yourself -- which you can do now with AncestryPress if you want to go that route.

And why are you claiming that FTM2008 is still "broken"? I agree it did have some bugs at the beginning, but after I installed the service packs, I never saw any problems. Just because FTM2008 did not have functionality that you desired it to have does not mean it was "broken". I never saw TGN claim anywhere that FTM2008 would have the same functionality as FTM 16. But it does have all of the functionality that its packaging and advertising said that it would have.

[Vivian Hull]

I have seen nothing to indicate that FTM 2009 has addressed the problem of not being able to search within and individual's notes. I have used FTM for many years and years ago we had the ability to search within an individuals notes for a word or phrase.. That feature disappeared and numerous requests by me for its return have gone unaddressed. FTM does NOT listen to the users.. I didn't upgrade last time and I probably will not upgrade again.. unless this problem is addressed. My notes are extensive and often I need to find a particular phrase or word in an individuals notes and am unable to do so.. The work around is to copy the entire note for the individual into notepad and do my search there.. VERY time consumming and ridiculous to have to do that. I am disappointed in FTM's response to user needs. If someone knows if this has been addressed in 2009 version, please please let me know.

[William Beason]

I have FTM 2005 and like it just fine. From what I understand, 2008 will let you do the reports, but you have to go on line and use FTM web site. When you do this, they get a copy of all your information and can do anything they want to with it. I will never give them or anyone else a copy of my information, if they can take it for free and then publish it on CD,s and sell it. I would like to upgrade but will probably look at some other program, if I can transfer my information without starting over. I have over 40,000 persons in my files along with a great deal of information and don't plan on doing it over.

[William Beason]

One thing you should do before installing FTM 2008 or 2009 is to make a complete copy of your existing FTM file in my case 2005 and burn it to a CD. Then if you don't like them you can delete them and go back to the old one. I still keep my 2005 with me all the time. For some reason several years ago I had a problem with it claiming that I need the full version, or something like that. It claimed that I had a trial version, which I did not. I took the CD and reinstalled it and have not had another problem with it. I am going to look at someone elses program. Family Tree Make needs to join the banks, as in Bankrupt.

[pghag]

FTM 2009 is some better than 2008, but it still sucks if you are not a newbie and have invested years of research work in the previous FTM programs and updates. If you have a large file it still is quite slow to load (improved, but not to the point of being a funtional solution yet for none newbies with large work files). Still missing much of the funtionally of the FTM16 and earlier versions (in other words still a giant leap backward for the FTM genealogy program, but maybe now only a 9 foot leap backwards as opposed to a 10 foot leap backward). FTM current owners listened, but heard only what they wanted to hear. They are committed to making this be their Edsel of their Ford line. Nobody wants 2008 or 2009, but by golly we're gonna get it regardless of how much money or how many customers in cost them. They will not improve upon the tried and true and once loved FTM program. This is not your father's Oldsmobile nor does it have the promise of satisfaction that Sears once delivered their customers. Thus the program will go the way of other such companies. Only a matter of when. Well it was a good run to have such fine genealogy software from 1992 when I first decided it was the best genealogy software, until 2008 when I decided and remain convinced thru my test of the 2009 versison, that for my use FTM has crashed and burned beyond recovery.

[Helen Lutke]

I, so far, have found FTM 2008 difficult to work with. Had a hard time getting it to work when it was first loaded. Had to get a patch loaded before I could get it to work. Then it finally authenticated and ran pretty smoothly. I printed and saved what I could. I put some things in a shoebox which I can no longer access. I bought the 2008 Platinum Edition which should have given me six months of Ancestry.com access, but was only about 3 months. I was able to go through my list of relatives about once. No my program can no longer authenticate. I received the email for the free upgrade to FTM 2009, but when I click the link and/or type in the url, I can't get the the Ancestry.com website. What's up with that? And yes, I am a registered user.
Thanks

[Jennifer]

I have used FTM since its inception in DOS back in 1985. I am now using FTM version 16. I will not upgrade to the new version. I found it too much like LEGACY which I found difficult to navigate and too many bells and whistles.

As for book publishing, I was able to copy all reports and put them into WORD format and edit them any way I wanted. I published my first book in April 2007. Working on book #2, still using FTM 16. If there is a better program out there that works I'm interested, but I'm still happy with what I use.

[OtterP]

Looks like reviews from users that have actually used FTM 2009 are coming in on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/review/product/B001B5L5RA/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?_encoding=UTF8&showViewpoints=1

[Nancy]

I would like to install FTM 2009 on my flash stick and run it from there. I don't have a laptop. It would be so much easier for me to take the flash stick and use it at the library. I would have the program with me to enter information. I would not have to copy a bunch of things to take home and then inter the information.

[Dick Eastman]

Family Tree Maker writes to and reads from the Windows registry. As a result, it cannot be installed and run from a USB jump drive/flash stick/memory stick. Any program that reads and writes to the Windows Registry during operation cannot easily be made to work from a jump drive.

- Dick Eastman

[louis]

FTM 3008 n'est pas une réussite... Je continue à travailler avec FTM 2006.A quand une version française de FTM, tout au moins pour les sorties papier?

[louis]

FTM 3008 n'est pas une réussite... Je continue à travailler avec FTM 2006.A quand une version française de FTM, tout au moins pour les sorties papier?

[Dino (All Dino, All the Time)]

probably the best thing about the newer versions of FTM is that it is introducing a lot of people (who are desparate to have a functional program) to Roots Magic.

[NolinLakeKy]

It's been years since I worked on my family tree and now I want to start again. I have FTM V8.0 loaded on my desktop but I want to purchase FTM 2009 for my laptop which runs Vista. How can I get the information from v8.0 to 2009? Is there a special file transfer process? I read a review that 2008 could not upload older version files and I wonder if 2009 is the same.

[Dale Philpott]

I have been using Family Tree Maker since it started. I have upgraded each time an upgrade came out. When I upgraded to FTM 2008 I couldn't believe that I no longer would be able to generate all of the charts and reports that I had previously been able to do. One of my files contains over 20,000 names and I have about 12 different files. I immediately dumped the 2008 version. Fortunately it was not really an upgrade and all files had to be transferred. That left all of the files still on the older version.

My big worry is that Microsoft will decide to come out with a new system and my FTM will not run on it (I use XP). So far Vista has not been successful so most things that run on XP are safe.

To me it looks like the "new" Family Tree Maker (that is, version 2008) was set up for new users. Us seasoned users, with large files were not considered.

I will not even consider buying the 2009 "upgrade". Anyone interested in an unused 2008 version?

[Paul]

I too have used FTM for many years and loved it, like many others I rushed to buy FTM2008. To my horror I discovered it was not an upgrade, but a completely new program, bearing no relationship with the previous version of FTM, the only similarity is the name and are genealogy programs.

FTM a mess, in terms of functionality and interface and I doubt the 2009 will be any different.

Anyway something good came out of this, when purchasing a new computer I upgraded to a Mac and now run MacFamily Tree from Synium Software. Synium are a great company frequent free upgrades and fixes and a support forum that actually gets back to you, users suggestions are taken on-board you get personal responses to questions.

[Matt Mixon]

FTM 2009 has given me my first bad experience with a program I've loved for years!! Using Windows XP I discovered that Microsoft NET Framework 2.0 prevents FTM '09 from loading. Their help techs advised me to disable it and do a Clean Boot.

When that didn't work I discovered that reinstalling NET Framework 2.0 requires more tech help, this time from Microsoft and for a $59 fee. Microsoft also suggested that maybe HP could help for free; and that is the tree I'm currently climbing.

The new ownership better get a grip on this problem. Seriously.

[William Sparrow]

You have to read this
http://www.tamurajones.net/FamilyTreeMaker2009Technology.xhtml

It is a technical analysis that shows that FTM 2009 is really 2007 technology.

Still doesn't explain why FTM sucks so much, but very interesting.

[Debbie]

I have been using FTM 16 for a long time and before that older versions. I skipped the 2008 version because of all the bad reviews. I received FTM 2009 for Christmas. Have not had one problem with it. Downloaded easily and I love the new format. It took all my old info from 16 with no problems. It'll take a little getting used to but I'm willing to give it a chance. I actually think I might be pleasantly surprised!

[viv]

FAMILY TREEMAKER 2009 is totally useless. What a waste of money! This is the 4th version of FTM I have purchased since 1993 and it is the last.
Can anyone out there recommend a good Gen program that I can transfer my records to.

~viv~ Vancouver

[Hapax142]

Horrible product. Bad, cluttered interface. Bad experience with install. Don't go beyond version 16. At some point when version 16 no longer works, I will have to find an alternative. I have a lot of well-analyzed data and now feel that it is imperiled in this buggy program that I can't read. Also, I do not use the online features, as I don't like them making decisions for me about who my relatives are, they are often wrong. Do not buy this.

[C. Weakley]

Just bought FTM version 2009. What a stinking mess! Too heavily linked to Ancestry.com. Going back to version 16 and the Vista patch. Waste of money for me. 20 years experience with geneaology and was very happy with FTM until I put it on a Vista machine.Takes too much time to load any item. Don't have all night to wait on version 2009. reedhill.

[Bill]

Thanks for comments on 2008 & 2009. I've been with FTM for many years and enjoy printing family books especially. I'm happy with version 16, guess I'll stay there. Bill

[Cheryl Richman]

I received FTM 2009 as part of my subscription. I have been a FTM user since version 1. 2008 had too many windows within windows - awful program. Went back to Version 16 - faithful and reliable.
Ancestry said it will only be continuing with this programme format -
When installing FTM 2009 it crashes - error reports to Microsoft - have gone back to FTM 16 and will not try any more of these new versions. They are trying to make it decorative rather than functional.

[Larry Alcorn]

I have used FTM for at least 15 years and upgraded everytime to newer versions ,the last 2006 or version 16 let me backup to cd,s or Flash cards. what a nice change from floppy discs. Then came 2008 a new system, that would,nt intergrate my earlier versions (FBC not supported for import)it said you could import version 5 and up in 2009, then came the errors, lockups, more paid links to go to. I installed 2006 on another computer,loaded perfect ,took all 5 disc from an old version 8 or 9 backup. Then I put them back in to start over from orginal files, worked great, Try that with 2009. Plus I had to uninstall 2006 for 2008 or 2009 to work, It might work if you didn,t have earlier versions to take data from and intergate. Maybe I am a little slow on using the new systems, but looking at the screen all day to try to find my files should be telling me something. O I know what it is buy more training CD,s and more online classes, then when it still doesn,t work I will blame my computer or operating system, and if that still doesn,t fix it . Well v16 at least you did,nt hang me out to dry and you still work. If I am wrong straghten me out and if not straighten this mess you call FTM 2009.
Larry Alcorn

[NewEnglander]

I had the 2006 version, and there were only a few small things I disliked about it. Then I "upgraded" to the 2009. What a mistake! The whole thing is cluttered, glitchy (shuts down when it feels like it), and some simple functions are just about impossible to find. Also, when I put my files in, my preferred photos were all out of order, my books are missing, and I just don't like it. I'm going back to 2006.

[Jerre Chumley]

I also have used FTM since it initially came on the market. I recently upgraded from FTM 16 to FTM 2009. Fortunately, I kept my final FTM V16 files which I may go back to.
It is obvious no one gave any thought to importing previous versions of FTM, other than FTM 2008, into FTM 2009. I agree with the comments on sourcing, and wish to add another significant problem. After importing my FTN V16 file into FTM 2009, I found that locations were also a problem. The developers of FTM 2009 assume that everyone wants to spell out each state, rather than utilize the standard State Abbreviations, and also add "USA" to each State entry, With 20,000+ name entries and over 600,000 Facts
(from FTN 16), that would significantly increase the size of my file and, at the same time, add useless information. FTM 2009 does not recognize such common placenames as "Arizona Territory", Oklahoma Territory", or "Utah Territory." There are others, but the point is FTM 2009 tries to turn these territories into States. On many Europen/Pacific locations, it does not recognize the placename and treats the entry as an error. The same is true for USA placenames. I have many ancestors who lived in Philipstown, Putnam Co, NY, but it treated these entries as an error because the FTM 2009 spelling is "Phillipstown" (two l's)- which is in error. For many of California Twons in the late 1800's,e arly 1900's (such as Township 4, Inyo Co, CA, Township 26, Inyo Co, CA, etc.), FTM 2009 does not recognize the Townships and tags it as an error.
True, all these placenames/locations can be corrected with the "Resolve all Place Names" tool. I had over 14,500 place name errors and it took me many, many , many hours to resolve the entries. FTM 2009 also takes the "Description" (from Fact entries) from FTM V16 and reads it as a "place name". Consequently, these entries also have to be corrected by the user.

[Elyse Eisenberg]

I agree with all the comments above and after several months am finally ready to give up on 2009.

Have been using and upgrading every version of FTM since 1992. Read the reviews on 2008 and figured they were fixed for 2009 so finally jumped in - stupidly without checking user comments such as this board. Have been working with 2009 for a few months and continue to be incredibly frustrated and features that I loved that are missing from 2009 - too many to detail here and continuing to find more. The lack of ability to customize defaults properly is an ongoing frustration. Also, for some reason, reports selectively do not include my husband, although everyone else’s spouses seem to be there. He appears in certain reports and not others. Trying to import the books I had saved in earlier versions has been a disaster.

I would like to return to v.16 or use some other software - which I am so reluctant to do after being an 17-year FTM devotee. Does anyone know if I export to a GED file, will all my info/notes/facts be properly exported, and can I easily import them into the old version or a new program?

Thanks.

[Rick]

I have had nothing but problems with 2009 FTM. This was my first time to purchase FTM. I was using Legacy, the problem with that is, it does not work with ancestry. If they don't do something with 2009 I am going to go back to Legacy, I may have to dig more for information but at least Legacy works with no problems. Their free starter program is better working than FTM 2009. I wish FTM could get something to work right.

[Joanna Thompson]

I am having problems with my Family Tree Maker 2009. Ii dose not download information for me. Do you have a way to check my program on my computer.
The family tree maker 2009 was a birthday gift to me from my daughter.

Hoping for some help.............Thank You Joanna

[Hazel]

I am having problems with FTM 2009 completely shutting down, when simply clicking on a name ! when restarting, I'm told that I did not shut down correctly...........would be glad of some help please.

[PBKingman]

An FTM devotee since 1992 I am now running FTM 2009 with the latest update on a laptop with Vista 32-bit installed. I’m having lots of crashes. Something is screwy. In all these years and many versions I have seldom had a problem with FTM until now. Not good.

[Walter Nixon]

Recently purchased a Dell Laptop, bought Family Tree 2009 and installed it on the new laptop. I can't figure how to install my family tree from my old Gateway Desktop to the new laptop. Please help

[Joy]

It's interesting to look at this site after reading the one posted below. You need to look at the comments on that site before you get the 2009 version of FTM. I've been using FTM for over 15 years and have never been so frustrated with it as I am now. I can't get the reports to generate, the program keeps dying on me for no reason. My husband uninstalled and installed the program twice with no new results! I'm looking for a new program!!!

http://familyhistory101.com/blog/?p=120

[EuGene Smith]

I am new to genealogy software and recently got FTM 16. I am confused about how to transfer files in and out between programs and on-line places such as Ancestry.com and RootsWeb.com.

As I understand it, the standard method to do such transfers is by use of GEDCOM files, but nothing in my FTM 16 users manual mentions anything about GEDCOM. If it doesn't have a GEDCOM capability, for what purpose would a person use FTM 16?

EuGene Smith

[Allice Reynolds]

I like just about everyone on here absolutely hate FTM 2009. Unfourtunately a friend talked me into upgrading to 2008 before I realized it had no Book option. After over a year of fighting Ancestry.com (non)support, FTM 2009 was working at a tolerable level. They added the book capabilities back into the program and after working on a book for the past two days I actually have 20 pages entered. I've had to repair, amended, and finally uninstall and re-install FTM 2009 today after which the program did some really weird things that took forever to figure out & correct. In short Ancestry.com set FTM back about 20 years when they took over & their support sucks! Now my problem is that the program will not let me save charts & reports in the Publish - Book view, in order to add them to the book. I save the report and when I attempt to add it, FTM changes it to something else entirely. An example is I am trying to add a Family Group Sheet for a grandfather and his second wife. I save the report, hit the + button, choose the saved file but when it comes up in the window the wife changes to the first wife, and a pedigree chart for the grandfather is added to the book. Tell me how that happens. Has anyone created a book in FTM 2009 and can you help with this problem? I am about to throw my laptop out the glass sliding doors, & I really like my laptop.

[Barbara Barker]

I have used FTM software for several years. The first copy was given to me and had the old clunky interface, but it worked. Upon retirement after 26 years in IT as both a programmer and technical consultant, I wanted to get seriously involved in my genealogy hobby, so I purchased FTM 2008. This product worked consistently until I was prompted to install an update. After installation of the update, the product would not run. I uninstalled and reinstalled and the product ran. I manually downloaded the update, and the product ran like a charm. Last fall, I was offered a free upgrade to FTM 2009. I successfully installed and ran this product for several months. Last week, I decided to open the product as I have made extensive updates to my family tree on Ancestry.com, and wanted my local FTW file to be up-to-date. I clicked on the FTM icon, and was prompted to automatically apply an update to the product. Having forgotten the problem with FTM 2008, when doing the same function, I clicked yes to have the update downloaded. I tried to open the program, FTM started initializing, and then crashed with a windows error message: "FTM has encountered an error and must close." I tried uninstalling/reinstalling FTM 2009 with no success -- same error message. I even went back and tried to install FTM 2008; still no success -- same error message. I visited the FAQ forum at the FTM website, and followed the steps outlined to solve this problem; still no success. I uninstalled/reinstalled with security/firewall turned off; I edited the windows registry (steps outlined in an article I found on the web). Yesterday, I tried calling the support line and was on hold for over 30 mins with no success reaching a support person. I have sent an email to FTM support, but after reading a number of posts on this forum and others, I am not expecting a useful response. At this point, I suspect that some Windows update over the last couple of months is probably the culprit. My version of FTM is installed on a T61 laptop running XP Pro SP3, 4G RAM, and 300GB harddrive. All I want is for FTM 2009 to run on my computer so that I can access my family data file.
Barbara

[Gary Brown]

I upgraded to FTM 2009 (Big Mistake) constant crashes and now it will not even boot up.. The support staff is no help. The company ignores the problem and is now sending invitations for FTM 2010.
Why would anyone waste time and money on the 2010 version when they never supported the 2009 version? Do they really think we are that stupid?

Apparently Ancestry.com has grown too large to care about their customers and support their products. They only provided canned answers for the issues which addressed nothing. I sent them an endless list of err reports which they have yet to respond to.They failed to honor their guarantee as well.

Please note the following quote from FTM Support:
Dear Gary,
We appreciate your message.
We reported your issue to our developers several months ago. The status on that issue is that the developers would contact you as a possible subject for beta testing.
Have you been contacted?
Unfortunately, there is nothing more we can suggest to you from Technical Support.
If there is anything else with which we might assist you, please let us know.
Julie
Member Solutions

If you Do Not have enough problems in your life, just purchase FTM 2009.

[kris dalton]

I also purchased 2009 after using ftm in various forms over the years. It used to be a great program. There was no amount of manipulation that I could do to get them to fix a relationship problems in the program. I reported to the company the minute I found a quirk in their program. The response I got was our techs are working on it and we will fix in an update asap. I emailed them five/six times in the course of a year. Now the last response I got was, we fixed the problem you will find the fix in the 2010 version, it's ready to purchase. My last email to them was "Why would I purchase something that you can't prove you've fixed until I purchas the program." I am so frustrated. Even worse, we are helping the company everytime we upload our info to share. They turn around and try to sell us back in disk form the info we gave them. FRUSTRATED!!!!!