How do you find the radius on a map?

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February 2, 2022 Business

If you’re plotting sales territories for representatives, looking at the physical ground they cover is an essential component. For example, one rep might have ten customers to handle throughout the day, covering ten miles. Another agent might have the same quantity of customers, but the distance between them is nearly thirty miles due to the rural area. Although the number of clients served remains the same, the unequal distribution wastes valuable time, energy, and resources.

A radius map allows users to play a radius around any data points uploaded to the mapping software using distance or time allotment to determine the catchment. The radius will either highlight the map as a circle (in the case of a distance algorithm) or a polygon shape (in the case of a time algorithm). Regardless of the radius type, borders measure specific lengths between the center of a circle and any point on the perimeter.

How to Create a Radius on a Map

If you’re looking to create a radius on a map, you’ll need some third-party software. Look for mapping software with a free radius map tool, preferably Google Maps integration. Once acquired, upload your spreadsheet or dataset into the program. Users can copy and paste the data into the program, import the data directly from spreadsheets, or manually input the contents in the software.

From there, create a new map in the software. You’ll want to create a radius map indicating the type of radius you’d like to establish. Options include a distance radius, which sets physical proximity from a central point, or a time radius, using Google Maps to determine the approximate time traveled from the main point.

Anything seen within the outlined border is the radius on a map. Likewise, any markers shown within the perimeter are within the previously determined radius (or are accessible within the time limitations). After entering the radius, save and refresh the map.

What is a Radius Point?

A radius point represents one client, customer, or lead if considering territory management. The center point is often set as the main office, sales representative, or central location for the employee. Points within the radius can also stand for other variables, depending on the industry. For example, if trying to determine whether an address falls within the delivery zone of a restaurant, users can quickly review the allotted delivery time radius to see if it’s within the boundary.

Can Users Create a Radius Map Using Google Maps?

Unfortunately, Google Maps has limited functionality when it comes to business insights. At this time, creating a radius map with the application isn’t possible. Users can manually input points on the map and use those as a quick reference, but evaluation beyond standard points will require additional software. Most mapping software offers radius map applications: some programs allow a single radius reference point (which gives business owners a single point of reference). In contrast, other mapping programs allow multiple radii simultaneously (providing numerous reference points at the same time).

Multiple Radius Maps Versus a Single Radius Map

Multiple radius maps can coordinate with individual sales representatives, highlighting their respective service areas at the same time, without having to toggle through different maps. This functionality also allows automatic integration with new data, giving business owners total automation regarding sales territories and new client integration. The automation streamlines business acquisition, incorporating all new leads into the sales funnel.

Understanding the Influence of a Radius Map

A radius map isn’t just for customer location mapping; the software determines multiple variables influencing a company’s sales process. You can evaluate the influence of additional representatives, how expanding territories might correspond to improved growth, or select the optimal location for subsequent buildings. Radius maps can also highlight overserved areas (where a client falls within two territories) or underserved geographic locations (areas without any sales representatives). These maps can directly influence your organization’s growth and development if used effectively and efficiently.