Gould Genealogy and History

• Why use genealogy software?
• What equipment do I need?
• How do I choose and evaluate a program?
• What are the different types of software available to me?

It goes on to list each program's major features; but rather than a mere litany of details, functions, and common characteristics, the author tries to imbue a sense of what the program actually feels like, providing over eighty sample reports and screen shots of the major genealogy programs and software utilities. In this context, it is important to note that only PC compatible software is reviewed here. Macintosh and other platforms, however, are listed and briefly described. Common to all the reviews are the following elements:

• Basic information such as the provider's name, address, phone, fax, e-mail, web site, system requirements, and the cost of the software;
• Program features including such items as the GUI (interface), standard features, functions, and limits and restrictions (if any);
• Reports, consisting of types of reports, limits and restrictions, and sample reports;
• Sources, which include information about the program's sourcing and documenting capabilities;
• Bells and whistles, identifying particularly notable functions and capabilities not found in similar programs. Comments-an occasional sixth and final element-are added as needed.

Contents:
Illustrations
Figures
Preface
Chapter 1. Genealogy and Computers
Chapter 2. What to Expect to Genealogy Software
Chapter 3. Locating Genealogy Software
Chapter 4. Genealogy Database Programs
Chapter 5. Genealogy Utilities and Research Tools
Chapter 6. Macintosh and Other Genealogy Software
Appendix A. Database Comparison Chart
Appendix B. Genealogy Software Vendors
Appendix C. Looking for an Old File?
Appendix D. Internet Software Resources
Appendix E. Programs Not Reviewed
Appendix F. The Mystery of GEDCOM
Appendix G. Computer Genealogy Publications
Glossary
Index