Setup & Support
Setup. Accordance 9 sports a fully automated and relatively quick installation process and has, at long last, introduced a new "Easy Install" process for users of Mac OS X.4 and up. "Easy Install" connects registered users to Accordance servers, allowing them to quickly download and activate modules. No unlock codes required. This is a significant and most welcome improvement!
Still, I was a little disappointed with the way the setup of Accordance 9 went. It deposited "previous" Accordance folders and settings on my desktop without a clear explanation of what to do with them. Some vestiges of older versions of the program were not properly handled, like the words files for the Syriac Peshitta or my old Vulgate module. Personally, I find it frustrating when I have to tidy up an install manually. My "last session" was also lost when I restarted the program. The installation program offered no warning to this effect as far as I recall. Most (if not all) of these problems have been resolved with later patches and updates.
For Windows and Linux users, installation of Accordance Bible Software requires emulation software. OakTree recommends and provides Basilisk II, a free program that emulates a 68K Mac in Windows or Linux. There are a few, relatively minor drawbacks though. Some non-essential features available in the OSX version of Accordance Bible Software are disabled in emulation (including "Easy Install"); the program is not nearly as attractive or as fast in emulation; and, there can be some technical issues from time to time. Still, OakTree provides technical support so I can recommend it. In particular, scholars will probably find that a Scholar's Collection Bundle for Basilisk II is an excellent complement to a Logos book collection.
Updates to Accordance Bible Software are available through an in-program utility or the Accordance website. The OS X widget used in previous versions has been deprecated. Updates may include fixes to the core program (such as v.9.0 to v.9.0.1 or 9.1) or revisions and corrections to modules. Updates are free for download or $10-$15 for a physical disc.
Upgrades to Accordance Bible Software must be ordered directly from OakTree. OakTree has now implemented an online ordering service that makes the process quick, easy, and secure. Upgrades are usually major changes to the core program from one version to another (such as v.8 to v.9). They are not free but still relatively inexpensive.
The in-program update and upgrade utility is not as slick as similar utilities in other programs but it is serviceable.
A few select crossgrades are available for users who want to purchase modules and book collections for Accordance that they already own for another Bible software program. Crossgrades provide deep discounts.
Support. There are four main support options for Accordance users. First, users can consult the help files accessible in Accordance. Second, there are troubleshooting FAQs, demos, help files, manuals, training videos, podcasts, forums, and social networking (e.g., a blog and Facebook) available. Third, OakTree provides technical support by email or telephone. Long distance charges apply to technical support calls outside the 407 area code. Fourth, users can attend conferences and seminars held throughout the year at various locations across the U.S. and occasionally abroad.
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