Friday, January 26, 2001

Getting Driving Directions With New Technology

For many people a pleasant drive on a warm afternoon is an enjoyable experience. However, when time is an issue and you are unfamiliar with the location or terrain, driving can become a stressful and tiresome experience that leaves you worn out before you ever reach your destination. Therefore, finding the best source for acquiring driving directions is important.

When asking people for directions to an unknown location, they often draw on things they are familiar with. It's not uncommon to hear someone tell you to "turn left as the second tree", or "turn right at McDonald's", or even "it's just past the third rock". The problem with utilizing landmarks is the fact that there are many trees, McDonald's, and rocks in the world and just because an individual familiar with the area knows where they are, doesn't mean these types of directions will translate well to a person unfamiliar with the area.

Fortunately, today technology in this field has come far and resources can be found through a variety of sources. If you have an address, in-putting it into one of the new types of direction finders on the computer can make any trip fast and easy. No longer are individuals dependent on printed maps or the directions of others to find their way. This has served as a time-saving and stress-free alternative to sources available in the past such as unruly maps.

Many Internet resources are available today for those who have the opportunity to prepare in advance. These sites generally attempt to find the fastest route. However, sometimes budget constraints and other concerns or desires require more options. Alternatives, such as "avoid toll roads" or "add a second stop", can be input when directions are requested in order to find the cheapest or most desirable route. Once the best route is found, they can simply be printed out.

With newer technological developments for those on the go, many cell phone companies now offer direction finders which can be accessed from anywhere, even while on the road. Some will even include detours and inform drivers of slower traffic which could be avoided through an options feature. Many of these cell phones are equipped with audio programs in order to ensure drivers do not have to take their eyes from the road in order to determine where they need to turn or the remaining distance to the destination.

Another new device that is now being included in many vehicles are GPS systems. These are devices that retrieve directions for the address given and have many options as to specifics of the routes preferred. For those with older cars drivers can still have access to this technology through devices which are charged directly through a cigarette lighter.

By utilizing new technology, customizing routes in order to navigate new territories and back roads as well as to avoid detours and heavy congestion is easier than ever. Whether one prefers to go the fastest route, shortest distance, or make multiple stops, the needs of the driver can be satisfied while on the road.

One of the best advantages of new technology when it comes to finding driving directions is that voice navigation now allows for hands-free driving just as cell phones have devices allow conversations to be held without requiring phones to be held. By keeping your eyes on the road, dangerous situations can be avoided making driving much safer and enjoyable while finding your destination with ease.

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