Despite my Old Fart approach to basic flying training and navigation, my Coastguard SAR unit uses an iPad for navigational requirements, and the programme we have loaded enables us to pre-plan a 'creeping line' ahead search pattern, and the pilot can also follow this visually, negating the requirement for the navigator to keep updating the required heading, and the turning points, orally, and after the event the precise area covered is there for all to see at any debrief.
Got to admit - they have their uses at times.