Usually this happens when people are attempting to run from the templates as they are distributed.
VIC is distributed as a collection of templates. You need to create new databases from these templates. Normally these are placed in a "VIC" directory under your Notes data directory. The launch and config databases should be done last. Then edit your Global Profile in VIC Config and create a personal profile in VIC Config.
If you still have trouble, contact me directly, dave.leigh@cratchit.org. I'd be happy to assist.
On the very top of my "wish I could get to it, or better yet, wish somebody else would contribute it" list is an Installer that handles all the details. This is a one-time annoyance, though, which I think is worth the effort.