John R. Nolon, Planning Reform in the New Century

Backspace Ink did an extremely good job of production on my chapter. The instructions I got were clear, time tables were issued in advance and adhered to, and the work product was extremely presentable. It was a pleasure to work with them.

Michael M. Berger, Planning Reform in the New Century

Joanne Shwed was a delight to work with. I have been writing for long enough to be wary of new editors. When the American Planning Association informed me that she would be in charge of the chapter I had written for a book, I was not sure what to expect. Happily, Joanne turned out to be the kind of editor who only makes the product better. She obviously doesn’t let her own ego get in the way of allowing the author his own voice. Instead, she gently prods to make sure that what is said is what was intended and that it is soundly supported. I’d be pleased to work with her anytime. Thanks again, Joanne.

Rachelle Alterman, Planning Reform in the New Century

Joanne Shwed’s editorial work for my paper was extremely thorough and precise. My paper dealt with land-use law in various countries outside the USA. It therefore required knowledge and precision beyond the usual. Ms. Shwed has proven that her editorial skills span the continents.

Rolf J. Pendall, AICP, Planning Reform in the New Century

Working with Ms. Shwed was straightforward and quick. She provided helpful feedback and made it easy for me to respond so that my chapter could get in print without trouble.

Stuart Meck, FAICP, Planning Reform in the New Century

While I know my writing is brilliant, with Joanne’s help it is now perfect.

Arthur C. Nelson, Planner’s Estimating Guide: Projecting Land-Use and Facility Needs

My book was 10 years in the making and included an electronic workbook. Over the years of its development the content expanded, becoming increasingly complex, and hundreds of formulas were developed with most being revised. By the time Joanne Shwed received it, the internal consistency of the book and its formulas had been comprised. Joanne went through everything with a fine-toothed comb several times. She and I worked through every formula, finding ways in which to improve many and clarify their meaning in the text. An important innovation was linking the text to the electronic workbook using CD symbols. Thanks to her, the book is now internally consistent, the formulas work efficiently, and the material flows seamlessly from beginning to end. I have worked with many editors over the years but Joanne was by far the most diligent, thoughtful, and constructive. Thanks in large part to her, the book is gaining acceptance as an important contribution to the land-use planning literature.

Daniel R. Mandelker, FAICP, Editor, Planning Reform in the New Century

Recently I had the opportunity to edit a book for the American Planning Association based on a conference we held here at Washington University School of Law. APA selected Joanne Shwed as our editor. They could not have made a better choice. Joanne showed an immediate grasp of what the book was about, how it should be presented, and how it should be organized. She made suggestions for format and presentation that so markedly improved the book that it would not have become the book that it is without her graceful assistance. Her edits of my Preface were respectful and helpful. Joanne has the ability to understand someone else's writing and assist them in making it better. Hats off!

Todd Litman, Parking Management Best Practices

Joanne Shwed is a thorough and efficient editor who helped solve a variety of complex problems when preparing my manuscript. She is patient and responsive to my needs as an author, and made major contributions to the quality of the book.