Hi Sue,
Well, I actually disagree quite strongly with your comments below. I think they are based on a misconception (from another post I think) that MRINs can just change out of the blue. This is not the case. They are actually very stable, unless you fiddle with them. Unless you actually try to merge your file into another existing file, the MRINs won't change. If you merge another file into your file, the existing MRINs and RINs stay unchanged, as they do if you export your file to a blank database, in case of computer problems. So this is simply not a consideration in choosing the paper filing method, as far as I am concerned.
I found the "fileyourpapers" tutorial extremely helpful, as I had no idea how to organise my files. I think it is a valuable part of the overall Legacy package. It is not wrong - it is just one way, that happens to work very well. It's not just using MRINs by the way - make sure you include the other tabs described as well! The method really works with a minimum of fuss and I've not had to duplicate ANY documents as you do filing by RIN or surname. Even if MRINs did change, the key concept is to file by "Family", not by individual - this is what I have found very powerful. By printing out a Family record sheet with chronology and source citation options selected, a very comprehensive record of that family grouping is provided. The relevant birth and marriage certificates are filed in the same place. Separate tabs for each family line keep track of research for that family. A marriage list provides the index to the files, which you need to use on occasions.
I can also see how Cathy's alternative of filing source documents only, works too. That's fine if you are happy to rely solely on Legacy for grouping and viewing information. That's fine for me, but I get into trouble when relatives drop by and I need to discuss things with them. The paper files work best then.
Although each individual needs to find a filing approach that works for them, those of us who are organisationally challenged really appreciate the guidance of that tutorial! So I'd hate to see it scrapped!
Cheers,
Rob
----- Original Message ----- From: "Susan Schon" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2004 1:14 AM
Subject: Re: [LegacyUG] Renumbering MRINS
Hi Lance,
Okay, it doesn't look like using MRINs as the basis for my paper files is a
good idea. Cathy made the same point you did...that RINs and MRINs are not
reliable. I would think the earlier RINs and MRINs in my Legacy file would
remain untouched unless I deleted one of the people, but Cathy pointed out
that if I ever have to export my Legacy file to a new file due to a computer
error, the RINs and MRINs might change. If this can happen, then I don't
think Legacy should have a link pointing to http://www.fileyourpapers.com/,
the web site that recommends this MRIN system.
Carol told me how to move my RINs to the User ID field, but there doesn't
seem to be an option to do the same with MRINs, even though there is a User
ID field in the Marriage Information window. I think this has been discussed
on this list at an earlier time. I'll check the Archives.
Thanks to everyone for your input.
Sue
----- Original Message ----- From: "Lance" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Tuesday, November 30, 2004 10:23 PM
Subject: RE: [LegacyUG] Renumbering MRINS
Sue, there is one way to renumber your whole data base, if you really wantthis
(or need) to do that. First of all you need to create a new data base with
you as the only entry. Next, import your existing Legacy database intonew file. Merge your old entry for yourself with your new entry (as #1).Theother individuals will then be renumbered. There is no guarantee of what order that will happen in, though.
Just remember though that RIN's and MRIN's are of significance only to the
computer program. It really doesn't matter which number an individual (or
marriage) has. As you find and add individuals over time the new sequence
(above) you create will be once again "out of order". Doesn't really make
much sense to rely on them does it?
Lance
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