Users of UFT may wish to convert their data to The Master Genealogist. If you do, there are several factors you should keep in mind. If you are a member of our user group, read the lead article in the October 2004 newsletter. While this article describes conversion to an earlier version of TMG the concepts described generally apply to later versions.

First, make sure your UFT data is in reasonable shape. Run Utilities - Check  and fix any remaining problems (the "repair" option may be helpful if you have a lot or problems).

Next, if you have a very large data base (over a couple of thousand people or so) make a subset of your project to experiment with.  On import to TMG there are several options you may wish to experiment with, and having a small data base will make things easier.  To do this create a grouping and use the File - Save As process, being sure to select the "new project" file type and, when called for, check the "use list" box.

Install TMG and, if needed, install available upgrades (see the Wholly Genes site for information on the latest version). Decide at this point if you want to keep your data in a folder separate from the TMG (default) folder or in a separate folder.  One option is to create a new folder C:\TMGDATA for your projects (UFT projects become TMG "datasets" of a TMG "project" on import). 

Review outstanding RUG newsletter articles on the import process if you have them; especially those under Major Topics - all years, Conversion and transition) as found in the Newsletter Index.

Do a trial import (on the TMG welcome screen select "Import data from another program").  Be sure to select the UFT import file type, either the *.PRO for the project data itself or the *.SQZ if you wish to import from a UFT backup file. If you are importing from a backup, then that backup must contain all of your library and multimedia files as wellas your project files.  Generally accept the defaults of the various options that will be presented to you.  At the end of the import process you will see your data in the TMG person view.

Download and print the file uft2tmg.pdf. This gives a detailed listing of UFT data elements and the place they wind up in TMG. Again, this document was prepared for an earlier version of TMG but should apply to the most current version as well.

As you start to look at your data and familiarize yourself with the new terms it would be helpful for you to look at the contents of the Wholly Genes Community Forum and especially the information you get when you search on the terms "Ultimate Family Tree" - note especially those items posted by Admin.

You surely will have many questions.  We recommend you review articles in past RUG newsletters (see the index of articles) and various articles on Lee Hoffman's website. You will also find a wealth of information in the archives of the TMG mailing list.   While you are at it, we recommend you subscribe to the list; this is where you will be able to post questions and receive answers from many other UFT experts who have made the transition to TMG.