Interactive Printing Demo Also a Tribute –Michelson

Please take a moment to download the free Actable app from Quad/Graphics (see inside front cover for directions) on your smart phone or tablet. Then, scan over our front cover to watch Joel Quadracci come alive as he describes how the blending of print and mobile technologies makes ink-on-paper more relevant in an increasingly digital world. And, how it heightens the overall experience for end users.

Technologies being deployed for clients by Quad's Interactive Print Solutions (IPS) team, including Augmented Reality, Image Recognition, QR codes and NFC, are further explained in the accompanying cover story that begins on page 20—where you can also sample six real-life examples showing various mobile experiences.

It's sad, though, that PI's longtime technology editor, Mark Smith, didn't get to participate in this issue, especially one that illustrates technological examples of print's interactivity with mobile devices. At age 51, Mark lost a six-month battle with mouth cancer on Jan. 21. By his own choice, Mark worked full-time literally until the day he died, even as he suffered from the effects of the cancer and the chemotherapy treatments. Mark's life revolved around his job, and his work defined his life, so maybe it was fitting that it would end that way.

Knowing him first 27 years ago as a friendly competitor when he worked for American Printer, Mark joined our publication in 2000. A visionary who foresaw how the Internet would redefine the publishing and printing worlds, his goal from day one was to lead our online efforts, including building www.PIworld.com from the ground floor and, subsequently, the launch of our daily e-newsletter. Mark also played a key role internally as the "go-to" person company-wide for editors with questions about our various operating systems, and as the key editorial liaison who provided valuable feedback to our IT/development teams.

Mark was much more than a valued co-worker; he was a trusted friend. His brilliance was undeniable, and his passing, like that of a family member, left a void that can't be filled. May he rest in peace.