A robust route respects time windows, realistic service times and continuity. Learn why a few extra kilometres can produce a more reliable working day.
Not every window is equally strict
A lab handoff or medical event can be a hard boundary while a client may simply prefer the morning. Do not store both in one field. Use earliest and latest times for real boundaries and a separate preference with its reason. The planner can see where movement is responsible and where it is not.
Estimate duration by work type
One standard duration makes a route predictable on paper and erratic in reality. Group comparable visits, include known preparation or handoff, and use a robust percentile rather than the average. Document exceptions separately so one complex visit does not lengthen every future visit.
Measure without pressuring people
Compare planned and actual starts and finishes at an aggregate level. Find patterns by task, region or time and discuss causes with the team. Use figures to improve assumptions, not as an automatic productivity target. Care content, traffic and recording quality often explain more than individual speed.
