Route navigation for winter management

Smart Route Planning and Optimisation with Jewel

Jewel starts with a digital inventory of the area and the parameters set by the local authority, such as priorities, response times, and available vehicles. Based on this input, the algorithm calculates the most efficient routes, ensuring that no area is missed and that drivers return to the depot within the agreed timeframe. The planner then reviews these routes in the web application and can easily make adjustments, for example to turning points or by adding extra streets. Once everything is approved, the optimised routes are ready for execution.

Smart route planning and optimisation leads to:

Efficiency: fewer kilometres and lower fuel use

Flexibility: instant adjustments by planners

Transparency: complete logging and reporting

Through smart route optimisation, Jewel prevents duplicate driving and ensures a logical sequence of streets. This not only saves time, but also reduces fuel consumption and the use of gritting materials. As a result, local authorities benefit from lower operational costs and a smaller CO₂ footprint.

When conditions change — such as an unexpected road blockage or an additional assignment — planners can easily adjust routes in Jewel. These changes are automatically pushed to the driver’s tablet, including spoken navigation instructions. This keeps operations running smoothly and safely, without the need to return to base.

Every route driven, including timings and salt usage, is automatically recorded. This makes it easy to report to decision-makers and residents, analyse incidents, and continuously improve processes. Local authorities such as Zoetermeer use this data to maintain control over both costs and service quality.

Unexpected icy conditions require flexibility. With Jewel’s navigation software, planners can adjust routes instantly, while drivers receive spoken instructions, allowing them to work safely and efficiently without paper maps. The City of Zoetermeer uses this solution to respond quickly to changing conditions and make roads accessible faster.

A digital connection between the office and field teams ensures seamless collaboration. Planners have real-time insight into which streets have already been treated, while drivers receive updates on the move. After operations are completed, Jewel provides full transparency: all routes driven, timings, and salt usage are automatically recorded. This makes it easy to account for actions taken and continuously improve processes.