Hello,

I have dabbled in genealogy very part time for years, since I have so little time to work on it, and am embarrassed to say that I am still using FTM 9, and had purchased FTM 11 way back when it came out, but never yet uploaded it. I have a HUGE file of over 1500 individuals and feel ready to tackle the upgrade but some questions first; I am terribly afraid of losing data.

1. Would it be better for me to get an even higher level to use, or will v. 11 work sufficiently well for me?? I don't have any big aspirations for major publishing or whatever, just information for the family.

2. Are there any precautions I should take when uploading v. 11, and are there instructions on the CD that tell me exactly what to do??

3. Is my current information savable on a DVD in case something happens during the upgrade??

4. What other advice/features do I need to on the lookout for in v. 11??

Thanks SO MUCH for anyone who offers their time to respond!

pgosl,

You have choices. Stay with Version 9, Install Version 11, or come up to Version 2008.

I would suggest that since you have Version 11, just to install it and it will open your Version 9 Family File and start from there.

There are a lot of changes in 2008 from Version 9.

After you get back into your research, with Version 11, then you can consider updating to a newer verrsion.

Just Install Version 11 and then open your existing Family File.

Its always a good idea to have a Back Up of your family file, which you have on the DVD.

Russ

The first thing you need to do is backup your data -- yes, you can save your old file (or files) onto DVD. Just search the system for all *.ftw files and copy them to DVD.

If you already have FTM 11 and do not have Windows Vista as your OS, you will probably be happier if you just use that. Load it and learn to use all the features.

You can think about purchasing FTM2009 after you see the reviews and comments on the web.

I would suggest you consider getting V.16. Why? There are many online sales of FTM V16 that include a membership in Ancestry.com for a variable period (mine was nine months) included with the software. If you consider the cost of an Ancestry subscription, getting nine months free is a very worthwhile plus. And, V16 is completely integrated with Ancestry.com so searches are very easy.
As with any upgrade, be sure you have a good data backup before upgrading.
Don