We’ve been working hard on the FamilySearch Alpha. So hard in fact that with today’s updates we’ve switched the label to Beta. We expect that the project will be in a beta phase for an extended period of time until it is ready to replace the current FamilySearch.org web site. As with all beta systems there are some known and unknown glitches and some particular areas of focus that we’d like feedback on. Your feedback is critical to helping us improve so PLEASE click the feedback link and tell us what you like and don’t like. See the Feedback Needed section below for more information.

Here’s a quick overview of the FamilySearch Beta, what to expect in this release, what areas we’d really like to get feedback on some known issues, and what will be coming next.

What is the FamilySearch Beta?

The FamilySearch Beta is a project that will eventually replace the current www.FamilySearch.org website with a new site at the same address that integrates all of the new technologies and record sets we’ve been working on (like Record Search, Family Tree, Research Wiki, etc.) into one easy to use experience. Instead of using these tools individually, you will simply go to www.FamilySearch.org to work on your family history.

What to Expect in this Release

This is an early beta that will continue to evolve and expand until it is ready to replace www.familysearch.org. Not all features are implemented. You will discover that some links lead to pages that say this feature has not been implemented yet. You will also follow links to portions of the site that are still poorly integrated or in some cases, not integrated at all. This will change over time.

Feedback Needed

We are grateful for any feedback you’d like to share with us. Simply click the feedback link in the upper right hand corner of the FamilySearch Beta to share your thoughts. There are particular portions of the FamilySearch Beta where we could really use your feedback.

• Overall look and feel of the site
• Blog section
• Library section

Known Issues

• The search feature does not currently search Ancestral File, Pedigree Resource File, the International Genealogical Index or new FamilySearch. We anticipate adding the ability to search this content in the future.
• The Family History Center Locator is not yet implemented
• The Family History Library Catalog is not yet implemented
• The FamilySearch Wiki is not yet integrated although it can be accessed through the FamilySearch Beta through the Learning section

Coming Soon

• We will be adding new features monthly so be sure to come back often and see the site evolve.
• We are busy working on a major overhaul to search features of the site. Watch for a major upgrade to the search features around the beginning of the year.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at 5:39 pm and is filed under FamilySearch. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.