Constraints

What restricts or impedes our progress?

Policy

Rules and procedures.

• What policies must we follow?
• What procedures are mandatory?
• Which rules are non-negotiable?
• Where is flexibility allowed?

Regulation

Law and compliance.

• What laws apply to our work?
• What regulations must we comply with?
• What licenses or certifications are required?
• What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Technical

Complexity and capacity.

• What technical barriers exist?
• What is technically infeasible?
• What performance limits apply?
• Where does technology constrain our options?

Cultural

Society and politics.

• What would be politically unacceptable?
• Which cultural norms must we respect?
• What are the unspoken rules?
• Where would we face resistance?

Contractual

Agreements and obligations.

• What contracts bind our actions?
• What commitments have been made?
• Which agreements limit our options?
• What would breach existing obligations?

Ethical

Morality and judgement.

• What would be ethically problematic?
• Where do values limit options?
• What would damage trust or reputation?
• Which actions would we regret?