Vicki, I think you will like Legacy. I too converted from FTM to Legacy as my main database, although I do use FTM as a secondary program.
Before you decide to do things manually, I would create a GEDCOM from FTM (need to be careful with the export options) and import it into Legacy. Then review the file and see what it looks like. If it's workable, take it from there. Only if it's a real mess would I consider starting over. You risk nothing bt trying the GEDCOM first, you can always abandon the file if it doesn't work out. With respect to the single file, I would encourage you to keep it that way. Although others on this list feel differently, I feel that 'splitting out' various trees is something that can be done in reports (and occasionally custom exports) rather than in the family file itself. Legacy has a 'tree finder' (View menu) which lists the various 'islands' of related people. Paul Gray From: Vicki LeMere [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: October-27-11 8:34 AM To: [email protected] Subject: [LegacyUG] Considering Switching from FTM to Legacy 7.5 Deluxe-Old file a mess Hi everyone- I would like to ask a few questions, if you don't mind. I have been using FTM for years. Love to do research but until I purchased FTM, did not know what to do with all the information that I collected. When I started entering info, alot of it has not been entered correctly. My sources are not entered correctly and all of my individuals are tied together, no seperate files for each family. One large file. I feel that I need to change programs because I just purchased a new laptop and it is running on Win 7 64 bit and the FTM version that I have is not compatible, and it seems like each new upgrade with FTM, it just gets worse. Also, I have failed to keep reference logs on my research for each family. My questions are. 1. Should I convert my file using GEDCOM files, or, because things are in such a mess, should I just install Legacy and basicly start over? Copying my information, but at the same time completing the sources, research logs, etc that needs to be done. 2. Number system. If I do convert, how does Legacy handle the RIN numbering system? I am assuming it will automatically assign numbers when the file is downloaded. Since my files are not in a numbered system, I need to redo those anyway. I would like to scan what I can to digital, but I will still need to file originals. I am going to further my knowledge by taking courses and at least getting certified, so have even thought that I should just take some courses on organizing my work first before I state to transfer my files. Thank you for any help that you can give me. I appreciate all that you can do. Vicki LeMere Texas Legacy User Group guidelines: http://www.LegacyFamilyTree.com/Etiquette.asp Archived messages after Nov. 21 2009: http://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]/ Archived messages from old mail server - before Nov. 21 2009: http://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]/ Online technical support: http://www.LegacyFamilyTree.com/Help.asp Follow Legacy on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/LegacyFamilyTree) and on our blog (http://news.LegacyFamilyTree.com). To unsubscribe: http://www.LegacyFamilyTree.com/LegacyLists.asp
