Related to the benefits of sharing scientific freely I have a related topic that I think is of interest to many here who occasionally publish their findings - if not their opinions on various eclectic matters.
As we all know, one of the visions of Star Trek was the introduction of a paperless world, where the majority of books, magazines, newspapers, and various other publications are displayed on eReaders. IMO, Apple's introduction of the iPad has essentially proven the fact that eBooks really are just around the corner, and sooner than many of us might believe is practical. For example, in a very short period of time the use of iPads to read comic books has skyrocketed. Reading comics on iPads is becoming all the rage in many parts of the world. See the following articles: http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2010/06/top-five-ipad-comic-book-apps-reviewed/ http://www.comicbookbin.com/The_iPad_and_Comic_Books001.html http://boingboing.net/2010/04/01/marvel-comics-for-ip.html This phenomenon is sure to escalate in short order as subsequent generations of iPads (combined with the frenetic introduction of equivalent eReaders manufactured by the competition) spread like an unchecked virus across the planet. Personally, I wanna eReader that will display in full color and possesses the actual dimensions of a typical periodical found in the magazine rack at Borders or Barns and Nobel. And, oh yes, it's gotta be under a hundred bucks. I'm sure my personal requirements are not that far off in the future. As a part-time graphic artist (of some repute in certain circles) I've watched the growth of eBooks with a healthy level of skepticism. It wasn't until I saw an iPad that I finally allowed myself to seriously consider the ramifications for which this brave new electronic medium would potentially do to the future of printed graphic/"art" books. Of course, NOTHING will ever replace the traditional printed medium. But such Luddite-like thinking on my part is essentially irrelevant to what is actually about to happen across the planet. The vast majority of readers would most likely prefer to read (and view) their subject on-the-go. Most could care less if they consume their product from the surface of white glossy paper or from an LED screen. This essay brings me to the following question I'd like to throw out to the Vort Collective: What in everyone's opinion should become the standard electronic "Format". Will PDF files become the global standard for a so-called universal eBook format, or do some here predict another obscure electronic format will eventually take over. I'm extremely curious about this issue because I, myself, have several, eBooks I'm contemplating. I sure would prefer to focus my energies on making sure I develop any future products with the de facto standard in mind. So, any comments from the peanut gallery? Regards Steven Vincent Johnson www.OrionWorks.com www.zazzle.com/orionworks
