Overview

This academic UX project explored how Google Maps’ multi-stop routing feature could better support real-life, time-sensitive errands. While the functionality exists, it is underutilized due to poor discoverability, manual effort, and limited flexibility when plans change.

The goal was to design a more intuitive, confidence-building experience that aligns with how people actually plan their day.

The Problem

Users rely on Google Maps daily, but multi-stop planning introduces friction.

Common pain points included:

• Difficulty discovering and using multi-stop functionality
• Manual reordering and optimization of routes
• Fragile plans that break when errands change mid-day
• Lack of confidence that routes are truly optimized
  

As a result, many users avoided the feature altogether.

Research & Insights

The project was informed by user interviews and synthesis, focusing on how people approach errands and daily planning.

Key insights:

• Multi-stop trips are time-driven, not location-driven
• Plans frequently change while already on the move
• Users want tools that reduce cognitive load, not add to it
  

These insights shaped both the structure and interactions of the solution.

Design Approach

Rather than reinventing navigation, the solution focused on improving clarity and flow within Google Maps’ existing mental model.

Key ideas included:

• Clearer entry points for adding and managing stops
• More visible route optimization controls
• Easier editing of stops without restarting the trip
• A “plan your day” mindset rather than strict route management
  

Designs were iterated through sketches, wireframes, and high-fidelity prototypes aligned with Google Maps’ visual language.

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Final Solution

The final prototype demonstrated a more proactive multi-stop experience that:

• Made planning errands faster and less stressful
• Supported changes mid-route
• Reduced friction around optimization and sequencing
  

The result reframed multi-stop routing as day planning, not just navigation.