Why would you or I use yet another family tree website like Tree Crossing? Because it’s solving problems!

Solving Family Tree Problems with Tree Crossing

In this video we explore the problems that still exist for genealogists when it comes to sharing family tree information with our family members. Creators Bob Meyers and David Pugmire explain how Tree Crossing strives to solve those problems with a new approach.

Tree Crossing Show Notes

In the ever-evolving world of genealogy, finding effective ways to share family histories is a challenge many enthusiasts face. Enter Tree Crossing, a new tool designed to bridge the gap between genealogists and their family members. In this article and videos, we’ll explore how Tree Crossing addresses common pain points and offers a user-friendly, engaging experience for those looking to connect with their roots.

Download the show notes (Premium Membership required.)

Understanding the Challenge of Sharing Family Trees

As genealogists, many of us spend countless hours building detailed family trees on software like RootsMagic, Legacy or Family Tree Maker. However, sharing this information effectively with family members who don’t do genealogy research and don’t have the software too can be challenging.

David Pugmire, co-creator of Tree Crossing, highlights this issue by asking, “Have you ever tried to share that with the family? What are you going to do? Are you going to hand them your RootsMagic file? Probably not.” This encapsulates the core problem: how do we share our extensive research in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for non-genealogists?

Tree Crossing: Designed with Family in Mind

Tree Crossing aims to provide a solution to this challenge by creating a platform that allows genealogists to share their trees without the complexity that often comes with traditional genealogy software. David emphasizes that the key is to keep users working in their preferred genealogy programs while offering an effortless way to share their findings. This platform is not just about displaying data; it’s about creating an engaging experience for family members who may not have a genealogical background.

Bob Myers, Tree Crossing co-creator, explains that Tree Crossing is designed as a website where users can upload their family tree data using a simple app that syncs directly with their genealogy program. This eliminates the need to export and import GEDCOM files.

The free Tree Crossing Sync app allows users to choose privacy settings and manage what information to share, making the process straightforward.

the Free Tree Crossing Sync app

Creating an Irresistible Experience

The creators of Tree Crossing recognize that not everyone in the family is a genealogist. This means they don’t need the vast array of views, tools, reports and data that our genealogy software provides. In fact, all of that can actually detract from the sharing experience.

As David points out, many family members need a different experience that is engaging and easy to navigate. The mission of Tree Crossing is to make family trees irresistible by providing a user-friendly interface that invites exploration without overwhelming users.

Tree Crossing allows family members to browse a visual and engaging representation of their family trees. This makes it easier for them to learn about their heritage without feeling lost or confused. The goal is to create a custom experience that resonates with each family member, allowing them to see their place in the family narrative.

Overcoming the Limitations of Existing Platforms

One common concern among genealogists is the need to share trees that represent all sides of a family. David mentions that many existing online services, like Ancestry or FamilySearch, may not adequately represent a user’s entire family. Tree Crossing addresses this by allowing users to combine multiple family trees into one cohesive experience, ensuring that family members can see their entire lineage.

I’ve been doing genealogy research for decades, and to this day I still have two separate RootsMagic family tree files – one for my family and one for my husband.  But of course my kids want to see both. Sharing multiple family trees is a common struggle for many of us, and Tree Crossing offers a solution that consolidates this information seamlessly as the family expands.

Why You Should Consider Tree Crossing

Tree Crossing is not just another genealogy tool; it’s an innovative platform that prioritizes family engagement and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just starting your family history journey, Tree Crossing offers a free version that allows you to get started without any financial commitment. With paid plans available for those who want additional features, there’s something for everyone.

Resources

Download the show notes (Premium Membership required.)

Coming soon: Tree Crossing Demo.