[BaseCamp] optimize

[saddle sore]

Is there an explanation somewhere of what BaseCamp sees as priority when it
optimizes?  Just what is it that BaseCamp optimizes?

I created a route that goes throughout and across Pennsylvania to scout out
about three dozen potential future Tour Of Honor sites.  My route skirts
the outer edges of the state but also takes deep dives into the central
portions.  I'm satisfied that the route is efficient, shortest distance
between points, and as direct as possible to cover all of the sites given
the Appalachian Mountains' influence on the road builders.

Having no experience with BaseCamp's 'optimize' option, I decided to
duplicate the route and let BaseCamp optimize the route.  The optimized
route from BaseCamp is longer in both hours and miles.  The optimized route
cris-crosses itself in places.   Any one have thoughts on, or experience
with, BC optimizing?   From my seat in the peanut gallery, their route is
not optimal -- or we define optimal differently.

Thanks,  Joe Y
western PA