A tool used for determining distances between locations, particularly for travel and logistics planning. It provides estimates of the number of miles between two or more points, often incorporating routing information. For instance, it can calculate the distance between New York City and Los Angeles, accounting for highways and other roadways.
The significance of such a tool lies in its ability to facilitate accurate cost estimation for transportation, fuel consumption calculation, and efficient route planning. Historically, physical road atlases and dedicated devices served this function. The benefits extend to both personal travel, allowing individuals to anticipate trip durations and expenses, and commercial operations, aiding businesses in optimizing delivery schedules and managing driver logistics.