The Triple Constraint

If there are four component of The Triple Constraint, why do we keep on calling it The Triple Constraint?

Success should not be defined just in terms of Scope, Cost, and Time - which are strictly efficiency-based.  

The Triple Constraint is usually indicated by triangle, so there it's balancing:

and the quality of your project.

If you increase the time it might and will impact at least one of these other components.

Always manage these things so you keep your project on track and these things are the things that you look at when you take things to the CCB your change control board.

In an ideal world, you have plenty of time, a big budget, and a limited number of tasks to project completion. 

Why the triple constraint is useful

Nevertheless, The Triple Constraint gives you an idea of what can and can’t be adjusted throughout the course of the project.
While it’s generally true that the more money and resources you have available to you, the better, there is a limit. Without limitations, there is a risk your project will stall or stagnate. 

After all, if there’s nothing driving you forward, then what’s your motivation?

These constraints are also an important part of the project manager-team-client relationship. 

They can be used as a formal framework for agreeing on what should be provided, for how much and by when. 

It sets expectations that everyone can agree on — and provides a benchmark for adjustments if they need to be made.

How to master the triple constraint

Projects are changeable things, and while it’s important to stick to the triple constraints as much as possible, it’s also important to stay flexible. 

Projects will grow and shrink, clients’ needs change, and staff takes days off.

Sometimes, there’s no way to predict how long a certain job will take or cost until it begins, but having an awareness of the shifting landscape will help you handle these changes in your stride.

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