Every week I share with you some of my favorite genealogy websites, tools, software, books, societies, and educational experiences. Now, I need your help! Genealogy is being added to the 2013 About.com Readers' Choice Awards this year, and I need your nominations/recommendations in 11 categories, each selected to highlight the wide variety of genealogical resources available to us. And yes, this contest is open to members and nominations from around the world.
Please tell me about your favorite genealogy software or app. Your favorite genealogical society. Your favorite educational experience. Your favorite free website. Your favorite book, magazine, or journal. I would love to learn about some new resources through this and get a great selection of nominations for the Readers' Choice awards that open next week. Thank you VERY much for taking the time to share YOUR favorites with me!
Please make your nominations in any (or all) of the following categories:
Genealogy Software & Tools
- Best Genealogy Software (Windows)
- Best Genealogy Software (Mac)
- Best Tool for Publishing Your Family Tree Online
- Best Online Genealogy Tool or Mobile App
Genealogy Education & Reference
- Best Genealogy Education/Learning Experience
- Favorite Genealogy Reference Book
- Best Genealogical Journal or Magazine
Genealogy Research & Resources
- Best Free Genealogy Website
- Best Subscription Genealogy Website
- Best Library or Archive Blog with a Genealogy Focus
- Best State/Provincial Genealogical Society
Or visit the full list of categories for the 2013 About Genealogy Readers' Choice Awards.
I don’t think I’ll vote on best software, because I have the program I’ve been using for years and don’t know whether or not it’s the best. That’s the one problem with surveys like this (or, for example, best frequent flyer programs) — they become popularity contests which are more reflective of which company has the best marketing program.
I will, however, give some thought to the other categories, since I do use several.
Dave, Thank you for your comments. I completely agree with your thoughts on popularity versus value, as well as the fact in most cases the definition of “best” is truly subjective. With that in mind, I did try to select categories that will hopefully introduce readers to new resources they were not previously aware of. Even software — which I agree is really all about what works for each individual user — has some great entries. With readers from all over the world, I’m especially glad to see the nominations coming in from the British Isles and Australia!
All of that being said, please feel free (all of you) to make nominations in the categories which most speak to you.
What I would also have liked to see was a best “Genealogy Suppliers” category as I could then have nominated Parish Chest.