Review on Heredis: the French software that simplifies genealogical research

Seeking to discover your roots can be a fascinating, but often complex adventure. However, Heredis, the French genealogy software and website, promises to simplify your research into your ancestors and family history. We’ve sifted through its features and evaluated its effectiveness, and here’s our honest, detailed review.

Heredis essentials

Informations-
📅 Year of creation	1994
🧑‍💻 Software developer	BSD concept
🔥 Latest version	2024
💻 Supported platforms	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
🗣️ Available languages	French, English, German
💪 Key features	Create and manage family trees Automatic archive search Synchronization with online genealogy sites Graphical visualization of ancestral events Reporting and publishing tools
💶 Price	Free basic version and advanced features on subscription
🌐 Web site	www.heredis.com

Advantages and disadvantages

What is Heredis?

Heredis is genealogy software developed since 1994 by the French company BSD concept. It is designed to help genealogy enthusiasts and professionals quickly create a printable, shareable family tree.

Available on Windows, Mac and mobile, this software simplifies genealogical research thanks to its many features. In its 30 years of existence, it has established itself as one of the best genealogy algorithms in Europe and America.

Heredis: the multi-functional software

The algorithm has over 200 functions that let you explore the history of your ancestors. However, we’re only going to dwell on the most important ones.

Creating family trees

The creation of family trees is one of this software’s key attributes. With it, you can map your history in visual detail. 

You can essentially: 

• Add members of your family
• Build links
• Defining each member’s position
• Integrate photos
• Annotate each profile with relevant details (dates of birth, marriage, death)

The program lets you create dozens of family trees in ascendance, descent or mixed. Your data can be imported from other genealogy software or websites to build a rich and complete tree. 

Interactive mapping

This feature lets you fine-tune your family tree and make it more visually appealing. In fact, it lets you associate a family event (birth or marriage) with a location that is displayed on an interactive map.

Each marker on themap displays a list of events, dates, and individuals. This allows you to see your family’s migration patterns. 

With this algorithm setting, you can track the movements of a member or an entire lineage over kilometers or entire continents.  

Once your tree is complete, a simple zoom out on the map shows the places inhabited by your family.

Online archives

This feature gives you free access to a database containing millions of documents (birth, marriage, death and census records) from Europe and beyond. Other resources can also be consulted to further your genealogical research.

Consulting archives online is very practical, as it encourages rapid data collection and makes it easier to compare information. No more need to make physical trips and laborious manual searches in different archives.

User interaction

The algorithm lets you share information related to your genealogy and even synchronize your searches. You can also consult other users’ family trees by simply genealogy search by surname in the software.

This way, you’ll get more information about a specific member of your family. You can then use this information to complete your own family tree. Interacting with other users will also help you avoid duplicating information and mutually enrich your family trees.

It also features forums and self-help communities. In these groups, you can ask questions and discuss genealogy best practices with other users.

Analysis and statistics tools 

The software’s analysis and statistics tool offers a detailed look at your family’s demographic trends at any given time, such as: 

• Average life expectancy
• Birth and death rates
• Migration patterns over the years

With this tool, you can generate customized reports, view graphs as well as printable tables.

Import and export files in GEDCOM format

The algorithm is compatible with GEDCOM, a standard file format designed to facilitate the exchange of genealogical information. This means you can share or migrate your data between different genealogy software programs without any hassle.

Compatibility with this file type allows a transition without data loss and extensive collaboration with other researchers and historians.

Simple, intuitive software

The software proves easy to use. It’s easy to get to grips with, thanks to a well-organized interface where all options are logically placed. Intuitive menus, clear icons and well-defined tabs guide you in your research and in the creation of your family tree.

The workspace design is sleek and modern with customization options. What’s more, interactive maps and statistical graphs are particularly well integrated.

How to register with Heredis

Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to register and start using the genealogy software: 

1. Download the software: visit the official website at www.heredis.com. Select the version suitable for your operating system (Windows or Mac). Click on the download button and install the software on your computer.
2. Open Heredis: once installation is complete, open by clicking on the software icon on your desktop or in your list of applications.
3. Create a user account: when you first start up, you’ll need to create a user account. Click on “Create an account” and fill in the form with your personal details such as surname, first name, e-mail address and password. Accept the terms of use and privacy policy.
4. Validate registration: after completing the form, you will receive a confirmation email at the address provided. Open this email and click on the validation link to activate your account.
5. Log in: return to the application and log in with your new credentials. You’re now ready to start using all the software’s features to create and manage your family tree.

In addition, select a “sample project” after registration to see what a complete family tree looks like. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the software and understand the organization and presentation of a family tree.

Be aware that the algorithm can sometimes be slow or freeze, especially when uploading GEDCOM files. The creators recommend using a high-performance computer and entering your data accurately, as the software does not offer an undo function.

Software installation requirements

Here are the properties that your Windows or Mac must have, if you wish to install the software.

Windows

• Windows 10 to 11 – current versions supported by the editor
• 500 MB disk space
• 4 GB RAM
• Minimum 1366×768 screen (11″)
• Internet connection
• Local Administrator account
• French version only

For optimal use, here are the necessary configurations.

• 8 GB RAM – SSD
• Text processing & Spreadsheet: Microsoft Office 365 Suite (Windows 10 compatible) or LibreOffice (version in progress)
• Mobile OS compatibility: iOS 13 to 16 – Android 9 to 13

Mac

• Big Sur (11) Monterey (12) Ventura (13) – current versions supported by the editor
• Minimum 1366×768 screen (11″)
• 64-bit only
• Internet connection
• French version only

For optimal use, here are the necessary configurations.

• 8 GB RAM – SSD
• Text processing & Spreadsheet: Microsoft Office 365 Suite (Windows 10 compatible) or LibreOffice (version in progress)
• Mobile OS compatibility: iOS 13 to 16 – Android 9 to 13

33 full versions and endless updates released

The genealogy software has evolved significantly since its inception. To date, 33 full versions and numerous updates have been released. These updates, made in response to the needs expressed by users, are aimed at improving the overall performance of the software.

They correct bugs, make the user interface more intuitive, enhance functionality and strengthen data security.

Focus on version 2024

Version 2024 of the algorithm includes many new features. Here, in brief, are the major innovations that this new version brings.

The family timeline

This new function integrated into the software allows you to automatically create a chronology of family events. You can view elements such as your ancestors’ longevity, their age when their descendants were born, and other significant details of their lives.

This chronology can be organized according to various criteria, such as place of birth, surname, or historical period.

Thanks to the software’s intelligent search function, you can discover the following information: 

• The interactions between your ancestors
• Identify family ties with the main character
• Following the evolution of surnames over time
• Locate the birthplaces of your family members

The family chronology provides interesting information, but it is impossible to import the data in image format. 

The mixed wheel

This is a combination of the wheel of ancestry and descent on the same graph. It allows you to visualize the life of a member of your family. The main character is shown in the center, accompanied by his or her spouse or spouses if he or she has had more than one. 

This gives you a detailed view of his or her descendants. This option is also available in the descendant wheel function alone. You can export the wheel in PDF format for easy sharing with a family member.

An enhancement to all wheels

With the new version of the software, you can now highlight individuals who have no place of birth. You can also hide individuals you wish to keep confidential. 

On all wheels, you have the option of displaying locations as you wish in the following order: 

• Commune tout simplement
• Commune with place code
•  Commune with abbreviated place code
• Commune with department
• Commune with region
• Commune with country
• Commune with department
• Region
• Country

Finally,the title can be hidden when exporting and printing wheels.

Improved entry on deed

For deed entry, the “Profession” field has been added for godparents in deed entry for baptisms. You can now enter the profession directly, or modify it if already recorded for an individual.

Entry is now faster and more intuitive. Heredis uses existing information in your file to pre-fill fields to avoid duplication. For example, if you indicate that a person is a widow or widower, the software automatically suggests the previous spouses registered.

Ability to rename media

With version 2024, you can rename your images whose names are not very explicit to better organize and classify your files. This can be done from your media dictionary or via the photo tool.

This is certainly a small improvement, but a big step forward for users.

Strengthening data protection

Hierdis now offers the possibility of putting several private files in the media dictionary with just a few clicks. This comes in handy when you want to keep certain information confidential.

Heredis: software for all media

Heredis is versatile and compatible with multiple media, giving you maximum flexibility for users.

With a computer

The software is available in desktop versions for Windows and Mac. Each license of the algorithm can be installed on up to three computers. On a computer, the intuitive interface gives you access to a wide range of advanced features to build and enrich your family tree.

With a telephone

Heredis offers an excellent mobile app for iOS devices and Android that lets you take your family tree with you wherever you go.

 Easy to use, the mobile app lets you enter new data, edit existing information and even view your tree on the go.

Ideal for field research, as well as visits to cemeteries or archives, it synchronizes all your changes with your desktop version. 

This means you can continue your research uninterrupted and enrich your family history in real time and with ease.

Partially free software

The genealogy software offers both free and paid versions. After installation, you can use the software free of charge with limited functionality, and manage up to 50 individuals in your family tree. 

The free version gives you access to the following functions: 

• Trees and searches
• Documents and sharing
• Dashboards and statistics
• Tools
• Customizations

If your tree exceeds these 50 individuals, you’ll need to purchase the paid version to continue. For Windows users, the standard subscription costs 39.99 € excluding promotions. The pro version for Mac and Windows, which is the most comprehensive, costs 99.99 €.

Upgrades for earlier versions are available at €49.99. Paid versions give access to a vast collection of historical documents to enrich your genealogical research.

Data security guaranteed

Heredis takes the confidentiality and security of its users’ data very seriously. All personal information and genealogical data are securely stored and protected by advanced encryption technology.

The company protects data from unauthorized access, loss or potential leakage. This is achieved by securing data transmissions between the software’s different platforms, whether on computer or mobile.

The company strictly complies with current regulations on the protection of personal data, such as the RGPD in Europe. You have complete control over your data, with the possibility of modifying, exporting or deleting your information at any time. 

Support and customer service

Heredis provides a powerful customer service to help you quickly resolve any problems or questions you may have about using the software. Customer support can be contacted via the following channels: 

• Contact form 
• Telephone: 04 11 93 08 11 (available from 8 am to 6 pm non-stop)
• Mail: HEREDIS SCOPARL, Atrium du Millénaire, 78 allée John Napier, CS 49458 34961 MONTPELLIER CEDEX 2, FRANCE

In addition, you have access to a wide range of online resources such as video tutorials, detailed user guides and an enriched Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section. These resources will help you find answers on your own. 

Adiscussion forum and help associations are also in place to help you learn more about the software. 

Heredis: what users think

Users’ opinions of the genealogy research software are on the whole positive. Users particularly appreciate its ability to handle large amounts of data and facilitate the creation of detailed family trees.

The software is often praised for its advanced features such as image and document management, ergonomic interface and offline mode. The ease of data entry and family tree customization are also appreciated. 

However, the limitation of the free version and the obligation to constantly pay for new updates are not appreciated by many. What’s more, unlike other programs, this one doesn’t offer the option of DNA testing.

Heredis vs other genealogy software

Heredis vs MyHeritage

The French software is renowned for its rich functionality in terms of detailed data entry and family tree customization. 

It enables comprehensive data management, with advanced options for experienced users, and is available in both free and paid versions. MyHeritage, on the other hand, stands out for its online platform, which offers DNA testing services to trace ethnic and biological origins, in addition to its family tree creation capabilities.

MyHeritage is particularly appreciated for its user-friendly interface and automatic data-matching functions, which facilitate the discovery of family links across a vast global database. Its graphics, however, seem a little outdated for lack of constant updates.

Our verdict 

Heredis is often favored by serious genealogists for its functional depth and customization possibilities. What’s more, it offers a better finished product than MyHeritage. The charts and posters you can create on Heredis are gift-worthy.

MyHeritage is ideal for those seeking an integration of genetics into their genealogical exploration and extensive collaboration through a global community platform.

Heredis vs Ancestry

Heredis is renowned for its in-depth approach to genealogy and its powerful tools for data entry, the creation of personalized family trees, and a wide range of detailed reports. It is particularly appreciated by European genealogists for its support of local standards and formats.

For its part, Ancestry DNA, based in the USA, stands out for its integration of online resources, including voluminous historical archives and DNA testing services. Ancestry is ideal for those seeking automatic connections to global family trees.

It is also perfect for those wishing to exploit biological genealogy to discover their ethnic origins.

Verdict 

Heredis offers a more personalized and technical experience, suited to users wanting complete control over the management of their family tree, Ancestry offers a more network-oriented platform and large-scale family discovery.