Software Feature
Match/Merge Functions

This is a very important function for those of you who append information to your major database from GEDCOMs you have received either from others via e-mail or snail mail, or that you have downloaded from the Net, AOL or at the Family History Center. Some GSPs will allow you to append (or add) part of the GEDCOM using a selection file. Others force you to add all the information. Therefore - it is good sense to import *all* GEDCOMs into a database of their own so you can review and edit them before deciding what to append to your main data files.

How Much Control Do YOU Want?


Once you append or add information to your database you may find duplication of individuals. This can hamper your printing of some reports by creating loops. So you really need to do a match/merge of duplicate individuals following the addition of data.

The *best* form of match/merge is when you have total control of selecting the records to merge. PAF allows you to view each matched record set, decide to, or *not* to merge, and, if you decide to merge, gives you the opportunity to edit the resulting merged record immediately. *No other* program on the market gives you this control. Most will do a global, or full database, match based on the criteria you select, then present you with the matches all at once. Some will allow you to de-select some of the matches, others print a report that you must then review and correct any merges that were errors. Most programs will allow you to select single matches and merge them that way.

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