One of the most fundamental necessities for proper planning and accurate policy making for cities is the production and organization of urban information and their presentation within easily comprehendible and accessible formats. This body of information should also be made available to Tehran city dwellers to empower them in their daily confrontation with issues that effect their lives as a consequence of residing in such a megalopolis.

The Cultural Research Bureau (in conjunction with Dr. Changiz Pahlavan) began a comprehensive study for the Department of Social and Cultural Affairs Tehran Municipality in 1992, which culminated in a data bank that was published the following year. “The Cultural Guide to the City of Tehran” comprised of the following twenty four categories:

Education Art Education Libraries Cultural Centers Cinema Museums Mass Media Entertainment Centers Parks Historical Heritage Publication and Distribution Sport Centers Research Centers Amphitheaters Hotels and Restaurants Handicrafts Bazaar Foundations Travel Agencies Official Translation Agencies City Services Government Ministries and Organizations Foreign Embassies