Triple Constraint
The Triple Constraint refers to the combination of three critical constraints on a project: scope, deadline, and cost. These restrictions are competing with each other. In other words, a change in one restriction will influence the other two. For example, a change in scope causes an impact on time and/or cost. Likewise, if we opt for cheaper resources, we will impact the deadline if they are less qualified.
The triple constraint, also known as the project management triangle or iron triangle, is an important concept in project management. For some time, project constraints were exclusively described in terms of scope, deadline, and costs. In other words, the complexity of the project was described in terms of the triple constraint. With the evolution of project management, it has also become important to consider other restrictions, such as quality, risk, and resources.
The concept of the triple constraint was also central to defining the project’s success. A project would be successful if it ended up aligned with objectives defined in terms of scope, deadline, and cost. Later, the concept of success evolved to include other dimensions, such as results and value.
Moreover, the triple constraint is an essential project management tool. Any project stakeholder will significantly value “what to deliver,” “when to deliver,” and “how much it costs.” Therefore, the triangle helps to make decisions about resource allocation, mitigate risks, and maximize results.
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Advantages of Using the Triple Constraint
The triple constraint play an important role in project management. One of the most important benefits of using the triple constraint is helping the project manager to make good decisions. In other words, it allows the project manager to consider the influence that decisions may have on all project dimensions.
Another advantage is that it makes possible a more efficient resource allocation. The reality is that project decisions have consequences. For example, if the scope needs corrective action to get back on track, it will take time and money. Therefore, the triple constraint allows the project manager to use resources in an informed way, because he will know how much it costs and how long it will take if we implement a corrective action on scope.
Finally, the triple constraint will facilitate a greater stakeholder alignment. Understanding the constraints allows you to set more realistic goals. In this way, the triple constraint lets stakeholders be aware of what can realistically be achieved.
Insufficiencies of Triple Constraint
Even if the triple constraint is a powerful tool in project management, the use of this tool is not perfect. Let’s explore some drawbacks of triple constraint.
Firstly, the triple constraint ignores essential constraints. For example, it ignores restrictions such as quality and resources.
Secondly, the triple constraint is simplistic. It ignores that some deviations are significant and others are not. For example, a deviation of one week may be insignificant, and a deviation of one month may be significant. At the same time, it ignores that the importance of each deviation may vary depending on the constraint and the project. For example, a project may give too much importance to deviations in schedule and little importance to deviations in scope. At the same time, another project may give too much importance to deviations in scope and little importance to deviations in deadline.
Thirdly, the triple constraint can lead to missing opportunities. In other words, excessive focus on scope, time, and cost can ignore the opportunity cost of keeping the project within the triple constraint. For example, the technical risk of a product may increase by not adjusting the scope. Likewise, rigidity in scope can compromise the expected results of the project.
Establish the Triple Constraint
Defining the triple constraint may need some steps and a few tips may help you with this task. Next, we will explore the process for defining the triple constraint.
Define Scope
Firstly, you need to define the scope. Therefore, it is necessary to define the project’s deliverables according to stakeholders’ expectations. Likewise, it is necessary to clarify the requirements for these deliveries. Finally, it is necessary to plan the work necessary to complete these deliveries. You can check this post to learn more about defining the scope.
Develop Schedule
Secondly, you need to develop a realistic timeline. In other words, you need to develop a schedule that does not generate false expectations. To achieve this step, it is necessary to estimate the duration of the activities and determine their completion date. You can check this post to learn more about determining the schedule.
Determine Budget
Thirdly, you need to determine the budget. In other words, it is necessary to determine the funds necessary to complete the project. To do this, the project manager must estimate the costs of the work. Likewise, it is necessary to consider when these costs will be incurred. You can check this post to learn more about the time-phased budget or S curve.
Assess Risk
Fourthly, a risk assessment of the restrictions must be carried out. For example, the team must identify and plan responses to uncertain events that may affect the project. You can consult this post to learn more about the risk register.
Align Stakeholders Expectations
Finally, it is necessary to ensure that the triple constraint is transparent. In other words, it is necessary to ensure that all stakeholders are aligned. During planning, it may be necessary to consider and negotiate several scenarios to meet these expectations. Sometimes it may be necessary to review these expectations. During the project, it may also be necessary to consider and discuss different alternatives to change the project or correct a deviation. The selected alternative must be widely discussed with stakeholders.