Genealogy Chat

I am wondering, would it be better and easier to use a family tree software like Roots Magic, My Heritage etc instead of creating the family tree online such as Ancestry.

Basically, what is easier ? If I use for example, Ancestry to make my family tree, I can export in onto my hard drive then to make copies and upload it to other family sites?

What are your opinions?

The easiest way is to get FTM 2012 and then you can link your Ancestry tree to it and it will keep both trees in synch. That includes media such as census images.

Edit:

Having said that I have FTM which I use for backing up my Ancestry tree and Roots Magic which I prefer and use that for more recent information which I don't want to appear on the Internet and for checking GEDCOMs.

Absolutely, I wouldn't do it any other way.

I have used Family Tree Maker now for over ten years after trialling several other offerings as I found this suited me best, but in the end it is down to personal preference as to which one you choose.

I now have several trees and FTM versions split across 2 pc's with backups in case of failure but basically one of the databases is treated as the definitive version on which all my up to date research is held. I also keep backups at the end of each year so if needs be, I can go back to see what something looked like at a point in the past.

I then periodically upload what I consider 'throwaway copies' to wherever else I need to, web sites such as GR, Ancestry, Tribal etc. or export customized cut down trees to family and other researchers who might share common interests. I rarely if ever, edit or add to any of the websites other than by uploading a new tree.

You have asked numerous times about FT software etc., and been given much advice already

You really have to use the system and software which meets your needs, and which you can cope with