The phrase "general direction" means a rough or approximate way in which something is going or should be done. It provides a broad idea or indication without specifying specific details or steps. Full definition
Choose general direction for research and narrow it down to a manageable issue. (my-thesis.net)
The short answer is yes, «anything can pass», as long as the data is going in the same general direction as the temperature trend, which is up. (climateaudit.org)
Players give general directions to their CPU - controlled cohorts, with these characters demonstrating a pleasing sense of intelligence and autonomy. (tech-gaming.com)