A constraint is a restriction or limitation on possible solutions. Constraints can be business or technical in nature and are defined as factors that must be true for the solution to be acceptable1. A constraint can affect the quality and success of the solution, so it should be carefully identified and managed throughout the project lifecycle2. In this question, option A is a constraint because it specifies a fixed budget limit for the solution that cannot be exceeded. The other options are not constraints because:
Option B is an assumption, not a constraint. An assumption is a factor believed to be true, but not confirmed. Assumptions often affect the strategy of the project, as project managers may plan the project based on what they expect to happen. Assumptions can contribute to project risks, as they are not always accurate. Therefore, assumptions should be documented and validated throughout the project lifecycle3. In this question, option B is an assumption because it expresses a preference or expectation for the solution implementation, but it is not a mandatory condition.
Option C is a deadline, not a constraint. A deadline is a specific date or time by which a task, project, or deliverable must be completed or submitted. Deadlines can be imposed by external factors, such as customer requirements, contractual obligations, or regulatory compliance, or by internal factors, such as resource availability, project scope, or quality standards. Deadlines can influence the project schedule, scope, and cost, but they are not constraints in themselves. Deadlines can be changed or negotiated depending on the project circumstances and stakeholder agreement4. In this question, option C is a deadline because it indicates a target date for the solution completion, but it does not specify a fixed limitation on the solution itself.
Option D is a design decision, not a constraint. A design decision is a choice made by the project team or the solution provider about how the solution will be developed, implemented, or operated. Design decisions can be based on various criteria, such as technical feasibility, business value, user experience, or best practices. Design decisions can affect the functionality, performance, usability, and maintainability of the solution, but they are not constraints in themselves. Design decisions can be changed or revised depending on the feedback, testing, or evaluation of the solution5. In this question, option D is a design decision because it indicates a preference or option for the solution development, but it does not impose a fixed limitation on the solution itself.
References:
Assumption vs. Constraint: Definitions, Types and Differences, section “What are assumptions and constraints?”
Assumptions and Constraints in Project Management - PM Study Circle, section “What is a Constraint?”
It’s Not “All Requirements” – Assumptions and Constraints Matter Too! (BABOK 6.4), section “What are Assumptions and Constraints?”
What is a Deadline? - Definition from Techopedia, first paragraph
Design Decisions in Software Engineering, first paragraph
Business Analysis Expert Certification, CCBA® | IIBA®, section “BABOK® Guide v3”, chapter 6, section 6.1.4.2
