Thursday, December 16, 2010

New Release of FamilySearch.org

Many (including me) have asked why they keep changing the website and why couldn't we keep Record Search Pilot. FamilySearch held a webinar yesterday at which those questions were answered. The programming they were using would not allow for continuing expansion needed to keep adding records. The only way they could continue to grow and keep up with current technology was to change programming. They noted that IGI and Pedigree Resource File (and new.familysearch.org - to be called FamilySearch Family Tree) would be phased in to the site. No time line was given. You will note in the announcement below that the old site is still available - in very small print at the bottom of the screen.

They also promoted the RootsTech Conference to be held at the Salt Palace in SLC February 10-12. IF you wish to make your voice heard with programmers this is your chance. You should have received an e-mail November 15th giving Family History Consultants a 50% discount on registration - $75 rather than $150 until January 7, 2011. Registration and class schedule is online at rootstech.familysearch.org. The syllabus will be accessible to registrants online prior to the conference.

If you would like to see the slides from yesterday's webinar go to wiki.familysearch.org and enter "bloginar" in the search block.

The following announcement was written by FamilySearch:

Updated Site Now Available; More Improvements to Come
SALT LAKE CITY–FamilySearch announced several changes today for its family history website,
FamilySearch.org. Online patrons will find millions of new records and images, over 40,000 helpful
articles, over 100 interactive courses of instruction, and a dynamic forum to ask personal genealogy
questions. The changes have been in testing for some time. FamilySearch will continue to implement
the new website in phases to ensure all critical elements are functioning as desired. Once complete, the
website will be promoted more broadly.
The new site offers the following free benefits to FamilySearch patrons:

• Millions more scanned, historical documents and indexes that are published more
frequently.

• An improved search experience that looks through more content and gives more
accurate results.

• A thriving online genealogical community where patrons can give and receive help.

• One user name and password for all FamilySearch products and services.

• Responsive, reliable, and scalable hardware and software that will allow the site to grow
and improve.

FamilySearch has published a helpful document called “Adjusting to the New Version of
www.familysearch.org” and a video tutorial that summarizes the changes to the new site. These new
guides can be found under the “Changes at FamilySearch.org” link.
The prior version of the site will still be available through the transition period.

Friday, December 3, 2010

23 Things You Can Do To Enhance Your Skills

23 Things You Can Do To Enhance Your Skills

One of the treasures that can be found at the Beta
FamilySearch Web site is the following page:
https://fch.ldschurch.org/WWSupport/23things/.
The site
describes it’s purpose this way:
Listed below are “23 Things” (or small exercises) that you can
do as a “possible” way to enhance your skills with Family
History and/or Genealogy on any level. The exercises will
expand your knowledge of the Internet and Web 2.0
technology.