Genealogy software ignores internet

Most family tree software makers remain reluctant to include internet research tools, according to the Consumer Association (CA).

In its monthly magazine Computing Which?, the CA tested nine family tree software products but found that only one out of the nine scored well in its inclusion of internet research tools.

While all products offered web publishing wizards, some did contain links to genealogy web sites but generally the coverage was far from comprehensive.

“In terms of the quality of research tools provided by the software, it was a bit of a mixed bag with only one program scoring well in this area,” read a CA statement. However the CA did concede that research “isn’t the primary focus of genealogy programs,” and that the programs “make it easier” to plot a family history.

Despite the inconsistency in offering Internet based options, the growth in Internet usage of genealogy sites is set to continue with research sites such as 1837 Online constantly updating its records and services.

“The popularity of genealogy as a pastime has exploded recently with family tree software and online resources such as census data making it easier than ever to get started,” said Jessica Ross, editor of Computing Which?.