IntuIdeas launches updated interactive edition of Introduction to Graphic Communication using Ricoh Clickable Paper

Cal Poly Professor Emeritus Harvey R. Levenson (Ph.D) and former Seybold Editorial Director John Parsons, have co-authored and published an updated, digitally-enhanced edition of their interactive textbook Introduction to Graphic Communication. Levenson, former Department Head of Cal Poly’s Graphic Communication Department, had received numerous requests for an update to the popular and fascinating 2007 work, originally published by the Printing Industries of America (PIA). The new edition, published in partnership with Ricoh, uses an augmented reality approach to learning – namely the OEM’s innovative “Clickable Paper” technology – to access online learning videos and reader-to-reader interaction. It’s the first such textbook to use Ricoh’s technology in this manner, although similar publishing projects are currently in the planning stages.
“This is not an eBook,” Levenson insisted. “This is a printed book that allows the book to communicate with the reader, and the reader to communicate with the book via direct communication with the authors via chat groups among readers and more.” Parsons added: “The science of haptics (touch) has shown that print is the best medium for deep engagement and substantial learning. But online media and resources are themselves incredibly valuable. This book is an attempt to combine the two – and give students and industry professionals the benefits of both worlds.”

Using the free Clickable Paper app, readers can access videos by industry leaders and technical experts on subjects covered in the book. Levenson, Parsons and others also provide video overviews and summaries of each chapter. Clearly labeled industry marketing videos are also included, when they illuminate or demonstrate a particular concept. “People learn in different ways,” Levenson pointed out. “This book serves those who learn by reading, by watching, by listening, and by discussing. All you need is the printed book and a smartphone or a tablet. It really makes the technology come alive.”
A short video, sample chapter and table of contents are available on the book’s website at www.igcbook.com. The interactive publication is an extremely helpful resource for printing companies, equipment dealers and OEMs who wish to clarify the basic principles of printing to print buyers, marketers, designers and other partners. The 248-page book is also ideal for university, college, vocational and high school graphic arts programs as well as internal industry training. It’s available now, with discount packages for multiple book purchases. Selected, individual chapters will also be published separately for programs that don’t require the entire book. For more information, please contact IntuIdeas at book@intuideas.com.