How could I map out a trip with multiple mulitple stops?

Question

I need to visit a huge list of locations in Janesville, WI.  There are approximately 40 locations I need to visit, and would like to enter addresses into a map system that can tell me what order would make sense to go in and how to get to each location.  (I am unfamiliar with the area)  I think mapquest will let me enter multiple stops, but will list it in the order that I enter the locations, not in the order that would make most sense travelwise.

Karen D · Accepted Answer

I know Google Maps will let you create your own map if you've got a Google ID. You could mark all the 40 locations on your map and it might be pretty obvious which order to visit them in.  If the locations are all or mostly the same type of business, you could use the search to get them on the map for you.

If you're a member of AAA, you could ask them to do a TripTik for you.

Anonymous · Answer

Sounds like you do a lot of driving.  I would suggest investing in a Garmin Nuvi 760 GPS Unit. Although the unit is on the higher end of the GPS market, it does have the capability to do route planning.  You can save 10 routes, specify via points and preview simulated turns on the 760's wide screen.

Jon · Answer

What you're describing is known as the "traveling salesman" problem, and is considered one of the great problems in algorithm design.

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traveling_salesman_problem

Basically, you can try every conceivable ordering, and see which is shortest, but that will take forever.  Or you can group them, such as do all the Northside ones, then all the Westside ones, etc. and treat each subset as a separate problem.  That's about it, though.

? · Answer

That's a good question  I hope you get some valuable answers

Anonymous · Answer

Not really sure what to say

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How could I map out a trip with multiple mulitple stops?

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