ABP was established in 1996 by Dr. Brian Somerville, a neurophysician and enthusiast for using multimedia to explain complicated medical topics. Before founding the company he made several animated videos. The first, Eye Movements and their Disorders (1985) was aimed at medical students and graduates. A second video, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis was intended to inform not just health care professionals, but also the patient, his/her family and the general public. Then, following the formation of the company, the work expanded, and several complete CD-ROM, and later, DVD productions were made, on subjects such as the principles of human genetics, obstructive hydrocephalus in children, overcoming physical abnormalities, schizophrenia, childhood cancer, Tourette’s syndrome, cardiopulmonary bypass surgery for congenital heart disease in children, and migraine headaches.
ABP has steadily grown in line with progress in medical science and biotechnology, and advances in computer animation. We now produce not only our own self-contained DVDs, but also animations for pharmaceutical manufacturers, educational publishers, medical and science undergraduates and postgraduates, for producers of TV documentary and current affairs programs, and for lawyers in medico-legal disputes.
“One picture equals..... a thousand textbook phrases”
Nature (Genetics) reviewing ABP’s CD-ROM “Genetics – a Popular Guide to the Principles of Human Heredity”
We also create animations for cutting edge biotech companies, who use them to explain their research to investors. At the beginning of a biotech animation commission we obtain a thorough briefing from the senior scientist of the project, and ask him or her to check the accuracy of our work at every step of the animation process. Often we need advice from more than one expert. It is here that ABP’s contacts with several medical and biotech experts ensures that we get the correct answers. For we consider that accuracy is of paramount importance, and is the reason why we are among the leaders in using animation to explain complex concepts in an understandable way, customized to each client’s requirements.