Assumptions and Constraints

Assumptions: -

·         in order to move forward, without absolute information, we need to make assumptions. These are assumed to be true but may not be true.

·         An assumption is a temporary decision that you make to compensate for the information you do not have yet.

·         PMBOK describes assumptions as "factors that, for planning purposes, are considered to be true, real, or certain."

Typical project assumptions:-

·         Project staff will be available as & when needed

·         Project staff will be experienced with technical and operating environment

·         A full time resource will at least work 35 hours a week

·         All issues will be resolved in a timely manner

·         Statistics used in preparing the estimates are accurate within a given %.

·         No outside consultation will be required

·         The scope is limited to that described in project charter

·         Formal charter and scope change procedures will be followed.

 ¹  Assumptions are identified in initiating. They are analysed in project planning, and they are reviewed for validity throughout the project. 

Constraints = are the factors, that limits the teams options such as limits on resources, budget, schedule and scope.

TRIPLE CONSTRAINTS of PROJECT = Cost, Schedule and Scope

 Project Management Triangle/IRON TRIANGLE (called also Triple Constraint) is a model of the constraints of project management. It is a graphic aid where the three attributes show on the corners of the triangle to show opposition.

THE QUADRUPLE Constraints = Same as Triple Constraints + Quality in Middle

¹  If any triangle is changed, then the quality of project suffers.

   

Photo Courtesy :-
www.innovationtools.com/Articles/ArticleDetails.asp?a=335
http://business901.com/blog1/using-the-theory-of-constrains-in-marketing