The Master Genealogist

A genealogy program for serious genealogists. Although it is usable by computer beginners, you will need intermediate computer skills to fully utilize its many features. It has a reputation of having a steep learning curve but if you leave the options set at the default values the program is easy to use and the results will be acceptable. It is only when you get into customizing the program that a little more effort is required to produce the results wanted.

TMG's ability to import data directly from most other genealogy programs (FTM, PAF and others) using the GenBridge feature is one of the strong points. The results will be better than a standard GEDCOM import.

The purchase price may be a little higher than some of the popular programs but minor upgrades are free. The total cost of purchasing the TMG Gold Edition in 1998 and keeping it up to date has averaged about $22 per year.

Information

Information about TMG is available from Wholly Genes Software at www.whollygenes.com. The current price for the Gold Edition is $59 for download or $79 for CDs and manual. A free 30 day trial version is available for download. A demonstration tour of TMG is available for download (8 MB) that walks you through the program step-by-step. The program is not generally available in stores.

8/16/06