From the editor.

I think that if I had to choose our most exciting--and most challenging--annual issue, this would be it. That's because it focuses on our Gold Quill Awards program, IABC's long-held standard for communication excellence. Of course, you'll find the usual list of winners and photos in this issue, but this year we've added something new: We wanted to share what made the winners stand out. So we asked the Gold Quill Blue Ribbon Panel to choose "the best of the best" and tell us about them. What was innovative about the entry? What kind of challenges did its creators overcome? Did the entry address a critical need for the organization? The comments we received from our judges were just what we had hoped for--the kind of thought-provoking insights that highlight the real meaning and value of these entries.

As I read over their answers, it reminded me of how many times I've heard Gold Quill judges talk about how much they learned by being part of the process. I feel the same way when my staff and I pull together Best Practices in Communication, the annual compendium of the winning case studies, or go over the articles for each issue of Communication World. That's because while understanding theory and being familiar with research are absolutely critical to having a grasp of communication, there is no substitute for what happens in real life. Seeing how someone else approached a problem, developed and implemented a plan, and then measured the results against the organization's objectives is how we learn to be effective communicators.

Then there is the personal connection that you don't get with more abstract material. Like any good story, a case study walks us through the experience from beginning to end. That's why you see a Gold Quill case study featured in every issue of CW. Case studies open our minds to innovative ideas that even the most seasoned communicators can appreciate. So, while I salute our Gold Quill winners, I would also like to thank them for enabling us to bring their stories to you.

Natasha Spring Executive Editor