It is certainly useful to carry some items handy in front so that you can reach them while hiking with minimum effort. I like to stash such items in one or two pockets or pouches mounted on the pack waist belt.

I have modified nearly every pack i have owned for the last several years and have had successful results - my goodies are handy and everything is well balanced.

The Ribz looks interesting, but I suspect it is highly specialized, and not generally useful for most people.