The opportunity to create a new anatomical atlas could not be described as even a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Original atlases simply are not produced often enough to make that statement accurate. As anatomical educators of medical students with nearly 60 years of classroom experience between us, we are familiar with all of the anatomical atlases that are currently on the market, and it is a very esteemed group. Our experience with these existing atlases has helped us formulate strong ideas of how to present anatomical images more concisely and in a more logical sequence. The intent of this new atlas is to make images easier and faster for the student to use. Speed and ease of use have become critical needs in the era of compressed anatomical curricula.
The development of this atlas required the combined efforts of a large group of people and the good fortune to have all of these resources available simultaneously. First, we had the complete support of Lippincott Williams & Wilkins (LWW). This support came in many forms, from editorial and production assistance and project funding to art direction and expert market analysis as well as many words of encouragement.
Second, we had the exceptional talents of the creative team at the Anatomical Chart Company (ACC). ACC produces the thousands of anatomical and diagnostic charts that are displayed in clinics and doctors' offices all over the world. The ACC creative team recruited a small army of the best medical illustrators in the country, kept this army organized, and guided them throughout the project. The ACC design team created a truly inspired design and oversaw the construction of pages. Working with the LWW production team, ACC also guided this complex atlas through the production phase.
Third, the authors have been friends and colleagues for many years. The result of our combined efforts to develop educational material has always been greater than the sum of our individual efforts. To this project we have brought the ability and desire to work as a team.
Using these resources to the maximum extent, we have developed an atlas that stands out among contemporary atlases in several areas.
