Introducing the Family Tree Fan Chart View on Geni

We’re thrilled to announce the newest addition to Geni’s family tree views – the fan chart! The fan chart view illustrates the family tree in a new and exciting way, offering a different perspective on your family history.

With this new addition, there are now three options to view the family tree – standard view, pedigree view, and fan chart view. Similar to the pedigree view, the fan chart will include only direct ancestors, but spread out in a semi-circular layout with the focus person at its center. The fan chart can display 4-7 generations of ancestors. 

And just like our other tree views, this new feature is also completely interactive! When you use the fan chart to view the family tree, you will still be able to add and edit profiles, resolve duplicates, get matches, and more. 

The fan chart view is available on your desktop, tablets, and mobile devices.

How to View the Fan Chart

On the family tree page, you can switch to the fan chart view by clicking on the tree icon at the bottom right of the page. 

You will now see three tree view options. Click on the fan icon to switch to the new fan chart view.

The focus person will appear at the bottom center of the fan and each generation is represented by another ring growing outward from the center. You may click on the slider at the left of the page to adjust the zoom level. 

Selecting a Profile

As you mouse over a profile in the tree, their node will be highlighted.

Clicking on the node will open the side panel for the profile. You will now notice that all tree notifications, such as matches, inconsistencies, tree conflicts, etc., can now be found under the Notifications section of the side panel. 

To refocus the tree, navigate to the person you would like to refocus on and click on the tree icon in the tab.

Adding Relatives

When you want to add a new parent to the tree, click on the +. Note that when you hover over the +, the node will show “Add mother” or “Add father.”

You can add more relatives through the side panel. Click on a name to open the side panel for the profile. Next click “Add.”

A list of the profile’s immediate family will appear in a pop up on the tree so that you can see what relatives already exist in the tree or add new ones. You may also edit existing profiles or refocus the tree.

Tree Preferences

You may open your tree preferences by clicking on the gear icon at the left of the page. Use the slider to adjust the number of generations of ancestors to display or enter the number in the box to the right. Keep in mind that the fan chart view is limited to 4-7 generations of ancestors.

Cycles

When you hover over a profile that is in a cycle (meaning the profile is connected to the tree in more than one way), that profile will be highlighted in both areas of the tree, if it is within the same tree view. A green x2 will also appear in the small tab above the name.

Multiple Sets of Parents

When a profile has multiple sets of parents, such as in cases of adoption, you will now see a radio button next to each set of parents in the side panel. Click on the button to select the set of parents you would like to see in the tree.

Printing a Fan Chart of the Family Tree

You can print a PDF of the fan chart by clicking on the printer icon at the bottom right of the page. Next select “Basic” to print the current tree view.  The PDF will automatically download.

Summary

The fan chart view is a powerful new way to explore your family history on Geni. With its interactive design, you can easily visualize up to seven generations of ancestors while still managing your tree just as you would in other views. Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just beginning your journey, the fan chart offers a fresh perspective to uncover and understand your roots. Try it out today and see your family tree in a whole new light!