QRT: Meet in The Middle

QRT Meet in the middle app

Inspiration

We picked the QRT “Meet in the Middle” challenge because it’s a realistic and interesting problem that combines data, optimisation, and sustainability.

We also liked that the challenge isn’t just about finding one “right” answer. It involves trade-offs between CO₂ emissions, travel time, and fairness, which makes it a good opportunity to think critically about how to balance different factors.

On top of that, the chance to visualise travel data and explore different metrics (like emissions vs. distance vs. cost) makes it engaging from both a technical and creative side.

Overall, it seemed like a well-rounded challenge where we could apply real problem-solving skills rather than just code to a formula.

What it does

The project helps groups of travelers identify the most suitable meeting point by taking in their starting locations and the number of people at each location.

Using flight and location data, it recommends an optimal destination. This could be either one of QRT’s office locations or among the world’s 50 largest airports.

The selection process balances multiple factors, including sustainability, fairness in total travel effort, minimizing overall travel time and span, and reducing jetlag for participants.