Project constraints
Project constraints are the limits and requirements within which a project must operate. Scope, time and cost are often discussed as the triple constraint: changing one can affect the others and the quality of the result. Resources, risk, regulation and other requirements can impose additional constraints. Trade-offs should be evaluated and authorised rather than hidden by reducing work or quality without agreement.
Worked example
A project must finish two months earlier. Meeting that date may require more resources, a smaller initial scope or a different delivery approach. The team assesses the effect on cost, quality and risk before obtaining approval.
Common mistake
An earlier date cannot always be purchased by adding people. Task dependencies, specialist availability and coordination can limit the options.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | SBL | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |