I would really like to see an article index annually. I know that a 13th issue is out of the question, but a listing of every spell, race, prestige class, etc and the issue it was in would be very useful. It doesn't have to be anything complex, just a simple:
Category
Item/Issue/Page
For example:
Prestige Classes
Reaper's Child/Issue 299/Page 47
I think it would make it so much easier to continue to use Dragon as a resource long after the articles are written.
I have to agree Robert! Looking at the bookcase in my room, I have probably a hundred issues of Dragon certainly dating back to the introduction of 3.0. I KNOW there are hundreds or useful things from the first rage mage introduction to useful spells and cantrips nestled in those pages, but unfortunately, Dragon is becoming a leviathan too large for me to manage any use out of it. As it stands, if it isnt something that was released in a couple of issues, I am too overwhelmed to remember where it is, and, frankly, get no use out of something that would otherwise be useful. I have tried in the past to make my own database of material in each issue, but I lost sight of the goal interfering with work and all....
I second your proposal and would love to see/hear a reaction from Mr. Mona and/or the staff
Maybe I have time on my hands I'll make one myself and post it on my website (I've been looking for ways to advertise it).
Also, it doesn't seem like such hard work. Make a WORD document (or just take a stack of pages) and with each new issue, add the prestige classes, the spells, etc. to the list.
Even if the Dragon staff did listen to your idea, would you really pay extra money for something you can do on your own?
Check out the Dragon Index: http://www.aeolia.net/dragondex/