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            Using Route Optimization to Reorder Calendar Events

            Modified on Tue, 5 May at 7:17 PM

            Using Route Optimization to Reorder Calendar Events

            The Optimize order feature automatically resequences multiple calendar events for a resource to minimize driving time, distance, or CO₂ emissions — without changing event durations.

            TL;DR

            In calendar view: Select 2+ events on one resource → Optimize order in Actions sidebar. Configure: base address inclusion (include/exclude travel to/from base), algorithm (Brute Force for <10 stops, Genetic for 10–50, Nearest Neighbor for 50+), and goal (time / distance / CO₂). Review before/after comparison → deselect events to keep in place → Apply optimization. Durations unchanged, only start times shift. Combine with Pack afterward to also eliminate gaps.

            Get started in 5 steps

            1

            Select events

            In calendar view, select 2+ events for the same resource. All events must have location data (addresses). Use Ctrl/Cmd + click for individual events or Shift + click for a range.

            2

            Open Optimize order

            Click Optimize order in the Actions sidebar. The dialog shows current route statistics: total driving time, distance, and CO₂ emissions.

            3

            Configure parameters

            Exclude transport to/from base: include for resources that start and end at a home base; exclude if they don't return to base. Algorithm: Brute Force (exact, best for <10 stops), Genetic (balanced, best for 10–50), Nearest Neighbor (fast, best for 50+). Goal: minimize driving time, distance, or CO₂ emissions.

            4

            Review results

            The dialog shows before/after metrics (time saved, km saved, % improvement) and the proposed event order with addresses and transit times between stops. Deselect specific events to keep them in their original time slot. Click Recalculate to try different parameters.

            5

            Apply

            Click Apply optimization. The calendar updates immediately with new start times. Event durations are unchanged — only the sequence and timing shift. After applying, use Pack to also close any gaps between events.

            Read more⌄

            Choosing the right algorithm

            • Brute Force (2–8 stops): Tests every possible combination — guarantees the absolute best route. Time increases exponentially with more stops.
            • Genetic Algorithm (9–50 stops): Simulates evolution over hundreds of generations — typically within 3–7% of optimal. Good balance of quality and speed.
            • Nearest Neighbor (50+ stops): Always goes to the nearest unvisited location — very fast but can be 15–25% from optimal. Only practical option for large sets.

            Troubleshooting

            • Button grayed out: Select at least 2 events on the same resource, all with location data.
            • No improvement shown: Events may already be in optimal order, or address data may be incorrect.
            • Events overlap after optimization: The tool doesn't check for conflicts — manually adjust or deselect conflicting events before applying.
            • Taking too long: Switch from Brute Force to Genetic or Nearest Neighbor.

            Common searches

            optimize route • reorder events • minimize driving • route optimization • field service • CO2 • genetic algorithm

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