On-demand food apps use algorithms for faster delivery

Food delivery apps are using complex math and algorithms to get you your order faster.

There are lots of food delivery apps to choose from these days – UberEats, Postmates, and Eat24 to name a few – but a company called DoorDash is hoping to set itself apart with a mix of math and good eats.

That’s because their app will tell you exactly when your order will arrive at your door!

“It’s actually a big math problem to get you a burrito through the streets of LA, or anywhere in this country,” said Tony Xu, co-founder and CEO of DoorDash.

Tony Xu, DoorDash CEO and Co-Founder

I’ve ordered from many different food delivery apps and generally, they give you a wide-ranging estimate of 35-95 minutes for delivery. What was really nice about DoorDash is that I had my kids come in from playing outside, wash their hands and sit down at the kitchen table just a few minutes before the estimated delivery time. This way they were properly prepared for lunch.

Bottom line: it’s nice to be able to plan around the time your food will arrive.

“Restaurants and retailers were never were meant to be delivery or logistics businesses – so we’re helping solve that gap and save consumers time,” concluded Xu.