A constraint is a limitation of possibilities.
Mathematics
In mathematics, a constraint is a restriction of the feasible solutions in an optimization problem.
Theory of constraints
In the theory of constraints, it is any factor that limits the performance of a system with respect to its goal.
To take a simple example: a chain has 5 links, each link capable of holding a maximum weight of 5, 7, 4, 8 and 6 tonnes respectively. The maximum weight the chain can hold is clearly 4 tonnes – the limit imposed by the weakest link. In this case, all 5 links have limits to their strength, but the 3rd link is the constraint because it is the greatest restriction on the system.
Eliyahu M. Goldratt maintains that any business system has
- at least one constraint, otherwise its performance would be infinite
- very few constraints, otherwise it would be unstable and cease to exist
The concept of constraint is the basis for Goldratt's process of focused improvement.
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Literature
For constraints in literature, see constrained writing.
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Theatre
For constraints in theatre, see Theatrical constraints.
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