Why does SA display routes as straight lines

[pwhill]

I'm a new SA user having previously used MS Streets and Trips. When I build a route in SA the display shows the route as straight lines between the added "via" points instead of following the selected roads. Why? Can this be changed to track the roads?

Moderator Note: Moved thread to SA2009 forum

[xapie128]

I'm a new SA user having previously used MS Streets and Trips. When I build a route in SA the display shows the route as straight lines between the added "via" points instead of following the selected roads. Why? Can this be changed to track the roads?

Two possible reasons:

• In order for a Route to be a "route" it must include a Start and a Finish, if you set the Start then place only Vias or Stops, without a Finish, it will draw straight lines until a Finish is defined
  
  
• Be sure to have the Auto option selected -- Route tab -> New/Edit button (then check the Auto option on the right, next to the Calculate button)

[pwhill]

Veersion is 9.2.0-SP2. Thanks. Would help if this were in the manual.

[xapie128]

Would help if this were in the manual.

Not sure what you mean by "this" (my first point above, or second?)

The SA2009 User Guide does mention many times that you "Create a route by adding start and finish points on your map" (p. 1). Although it doesn't specifically mention the straight line issue, it at least does tell you to set your Start and Finish before you add any Vias or Stops.

If you mean the Auto button, page 38 states, "Tip: Select the Auto check box next to the Calculate button to automatically calculate the route"