Bible Software Review: By way of an introduction, please give us any personal information you'd like to share with our readers.
John Baima: I've been doing this since 1985. Lbase was the first DOS program to have accented Greek and pointed Hebrew on screen. Bible Windows was the first Windows program with both accented Greek and pointed Hebrew on screen. Silver Mountain Software was the first to use very narrow characters to display Greek and Hebrew. This was widely adapted before the advent of Unicode. Lbase was also the first commercial program to search the TLG CD. It is still the fastest program.
BSR: When did your company start, and why did you feel the need to set this project off?
JB: In 1985 people wanted the functionality of GRAMCORD with texts other than the Greek New Testament and wanted to be able to search the TLG CD without an Ibycus machine.
BSR: What is your current role in the company?
JB: Owner.
BSR: When you look back, what would you identify as being the single greatest feat in the history of Bible software?
JB: I have no idea!
BSR: What segment of Bible software users do you consider to be your main target?
JB: Those with a good working knowledge of Greek and/or Hebrew.
BSR: In your opinion, what are the three most salient features of your application?
JB: Ease of use. Full Interlinear display. Grammatical searches.
BSR: If you had to recommend the use of Bible software to someone who has never been exposed to it before, how would you go about it?
JB: It really depends on what people want to do. There are all kinds of diverse people using Bibloi.
BSR: Why do you think people should consider using your software?
JB: Cost and functionality for a program with the Greek and Hebrew texts. Bibloi can assist scholars as well as those who just want to read the text. For people who just want to read the text, I think it is the best program available.
BSR: What is the primary use you make of your own software?
JB: Yes, I use it.
BSR: Is there any feature lacking in Bible software in general, that you would love to see implemented soon?
JB: No comment to make.
BSR: Are there any specific plans to port the software to other platforms? (Mac, Linux, PDA...)
JB: We never comment on unannounced products. We are always looking to extend our products.
BSR: Besides English, is or will your software be available in other languages in the foreseeable future?
JB: No.
BSR: From your perspective, what should Bible software be heading for in the years to come?
JB: No comment to make.
BSR: Would you like to add or share anything not covered in the previous questions?
JB: No, thanks.
BSR: Thank you so much for your time!
