Simplicity vs. Intricacy

Have any of you ever used Photoshop elements, and then tried to use the full blown version of Photoshop? In my experience, changing from a simple and basic program to an advanced and more complicated program is not always the best choice. It really depends on your needs. Some of us just want to crop a picture and remove red eye, while others need to manipulate Hue & Saturation, or layer images. If you need the advanced features you must be willing to spend the time to learn how to use them.

Personal Ancestral File (PAF) is like that simple photo editing software; simple and to the point. You can do the basics quickly and easily. It doesn't give you a bunch of extra features like GPS coordinates and DNA test tracking, but it does its job.

If you're content with the basics, keep using PAF and forge ahead in your research. If you think you're ready for a more full-featured program, FamilyInsight is also compatible with these other popular genealogy programs: RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, Ancestral Quest, and Legacy. Learn about these other programs

What kind of support does PAF have?

FamilySearch is still fully supporting PAF. You can get PAF help online at familysearch.org, or by calling- 1-866-406-1830.

Even though they are not releasing any new updates to the program because their programmers are hard at work on the new website, FamilySearch has invited Ohana Software and others to make certified PAF add-ins. These FamilySearch approved add-ins give great new functionality to PAF users as technologies become available.

The FamilyInsight add-in was design specifically for users who wanted better access to the FamilySearch website, while still using the simple PAF interface for their primary research. You can easily compare your PAF file to new FamilySearch, get all the latest temple codes, and reserve ordinances while directly referencing your PAF file.

Are a lot of people still using PAF?

Yes! PAF is still the primary program being taught to FamilySearch missionaries and volunteers in Salt Lake City, as well as various training centers across the country. As such, the program is still a favorite for its simplicity.

What does FamilyInsight give PAF users?

FamilyInsight

Download Version
Windows or Mac

 $25.00

FamilySearch Sync- Compare your file with the new FamilySearch website. Transfer information to and from the website without extra typing. Combine duplicates and Separate records on new FamilySearch directly from your file.

Edit RINs and Pedigrees- Remove extra space from empty RIN #'s, view and trim unlinked pedigrees

Advanced Merge- Merge duplicates far more effectively than you can in PAF. Shows a % match, highlights differences, and allows you to select what information is merged.

Compare 2 files- Compare your PAF file with another file and update it with new information. See the differences between 2 files.

Updated Temple Codes & More