Pathfinding isn't just an abstract problem; it's the engine behind many technologies you use every day.
- Finding the fastest route for GPS Navigation (e.g., Google Maps, Waze).
- Determining the most efficient path for data packets across the internet (Network Routing).
- Calculating the cheapest or fastest route for delivery trucks and supply chains (Logistics).
- Identifying the critical path in a project, which determines the minimum completion time (Project Scheduling).
| Domain | Application | What is the 'Path'? | What is the 'Cost'? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navigation | GPS Route Planning | A sequence of roads | Travel Time or Distance |
| Internet | Data Packet Routing | A sequence of routers | Latency (Delay) or Hops |
| Logistics | Delivery Route (UPS/FedEx) | A sequence of cities/stops | Fuel Cost or Time |
| Project Mgt | Project Scheduling | A sequence of tasks/dependencies | Time required to complete task |