Welcoming Constraints

Posted by: Josh Walsh in User Experience.

As software developers we often find ourselves running low on time, money or patience. While these constraints often cause frustration, they are actually good things.

Constraints are simple solutions in disguise. When you find yourself working hard on a problem and seem to be progressing slowly, take the constraint as a sign to step back and examine the problem again.

The simplest answer is usually the correct answer.

Occam’s Razor

Ignoring Constraints

It’s natural to ignore constraints. After all, they cause us pain and we are taught to keep emotions out of our business. However, ignoring these constraints will lead to software which is counter-intuitive to use.

Resist the urge to throw more money/people/time at the problem to fix it. People under pressure do not work faster and additional funds just provides an excuse to deliver late.

Exceptions

There are times when constraints are caused by other situations. You may have a more serious problem to deal with if the constraints are caused by:

• Poor planning
• Lazy people
• Bad project management
• Counter productive working atmosphere
• Distractions caused by Twitter