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Try free for 7 daysWhen it comes to finding the best route planner, Waze is a popular choice for many. With over 140 million users relying on it for their day-to-day drives, Waze has gained a lot of traction in the GPS navigation software market. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the features and limitations of Waze as a route planner, compare it to other options like Google Maps, and provide alternatives for specific needs.
Waze as a Route Planner: Overview and Features
Waze, which was acquired by Google in 2013, offers an integrated route planner that provides fast and efficient navigation from point A to point B. It allows users to add one extra stop along the way, making it convenient for quick pit stops like getting gas or grabbing a bite to eat. The app also provides real-time traffic updates based on data from other Waze users, ensuring that drivers reach their destinations as efficiently as possible.
One of the key differentiators of Waze is its quirky and fun interface. While it may be distracting for some drivers, it adds a unique element to the navigation experience. Additionally, Waze offers features like the Waze Carpool app, which allows users to find rides heading their way and engage in carpooling to reduce traffic and gas costs.
However, Waze does have its limitations. It does not support multiple-stop routes, which can be a significant drawback for professionals who need to plan complex routes with several destinations. If you require a more sophisticated route planner with business-specific features, it’s worth considering alternatives like RoadWarrior.
How to Plan a Route with Multiple Stops on Waze
While Waze only allows for one extra stop on a route, it can still be useful for planning simple routes with a single additional destination. To add a stop on Waze, follow these steps:
- Enter your main destination and click ‘go’.
- Tap the blue oval with a white arrow at the bottom of the page and select “add a stop”.
- Choose a preset destination or enter a custom one.
- Once you have your multiple-stop route ready, click ‘go’ and you’re all set to drive.
Waze vs. Google Maps: Choosing the Right Route Planner
When it comes to choosing between Waze and Google Maps, it’s important to consider your specific needs. Google Maps is known for its intuitive and reliable route planning capabilities, providing accurate real-time information on road conditions, traffic delays, and accidents. It allows users to add up to 10 stops on a route, making it a better option for routes with multiple destinations.
On the other hand, Waze offers unique features like off-road shortcuts, trip planning in advance, and live traffic updates from other Waze users. Its interface is sleek and highly customizable, allowing users to personalize their navigation experience. However, Waze’s limitation of only one additional stop on a route can be a drawback for those who require more flexibility.
For professionals in fields like delivery or field sales, neither Waze nor Google Maps may be the ideal solution. Specialized route planning software like RoadWarrior offers advanced features tailored to the needs of these industries, providing optimized routes with multiple stops and streamlining other aspects of the job.
RoadWarrior: An Alternative for Field Salespeople
When it comes to field sales, having a route planner that optimizes routes with multiple stops is crucial. RoadWarrior is a comprehensive solution designed specifically for field salespeople. With features like seamlessly uploading 500+ stops via Excel or directly importing FedEx manifests and route optimization, RoadWarrior streamlines the entire process.
By using RoadWarrior, field salespeople can save valuable time in planning and driving, allowing them to focus on rehearsing their sales pitch and finding new prospects. The app integrates with popular navigation systems like Waze and Google Maps, providing turn-by-turn directions for all stops on the optimized route.
The Productivity-Boosting Sales Play: RoadWarrior and Waze Integration
Combining the power of RoadWarrior and Waze can significantly enhance the efficiency of field sales routes. Here’s how you can use Waze as your navigation app with RoadWarrior:
- Visualize your accounts and prioritize them within the RoadWarrior app.
- Use RoadWarrior’s optimized routing capabilities to create an efficient route to all your appointments.
- Enable Route Mode in RoadWarrior and use Waze for turn-by-turn directions to each stop on your route.
By leveraging the strengths of both RoadWarrior and Waze, field salespeople can streamline their routes, save time, and ensure they reach the right customers at the right time.
Conclusion
Waze is undoubtedly a popular choice for many drivers looking for a reliable and fun route planner. However, its limitations in handling multiple-stop routes make it less suitable for professionals with complex routing needs. For field salespeople, specialized route planning software like RoadWarrior provides the necessary features to optimize routes, streamline the sales process, and boost productivity.
When selecting a route planner, consider your specific requirements and the nature of your job. Whether it’s Waze, Google Maps, or a specialized solution like RoadWarrior, finding the best route planner will ultimately depend on your unique needs and preferences.
