This guide investigates the most efficient ways to navigate the complex urban landscape of New York City by prioritizing visual accessibility and logical organization. Richard Saul Wurman, an architect and information designer, applies his signature 'Access' methodology to the city, utilizing a structured, graphic-heavy framework to distill vast amounts of local data into actionable information for residents and visitors alike.

Experts frequently cite this work as a foundational example of information design applied to urban navigation. Readers often note that while the specific business listings may age, the organizational methodology remains a benchmark for how to present complex city data in a readable format.