The problem appears to be a pilot being issued a route direct to a fix, and not really knowing how to spell the fix so that they can type it into the GPS, or FMS. The only way to correct this problem is for the pilot to ask that the FIX be spelled (phonitically), and/or to ask for an initial heading.
For example if a pilot ask for direct Lansing, does he mean Lansing IL, Lansing MI, or some other Lansing? I don't know unless I ask.
Again, COMMUNICATION is the KEY!
Mike
NATCA FWA