You probably know that diamonds are formed under pressure. Last month I introduced constraints as a tool for decision making.
This blog is about how pressure, in the form of constraints, can help take your business decision-making to the next level.
To illustrate the power of constraints, we’ve put together 5 practical business scenarios you can use on your next project. I have also included two practical examples of how my business uses these constraints.
5 Practical Constraint Scenarios For Your Business
Scenario 1: Time Constraint
You only have 5 days to launch your project…
- What would you prioritise?
- What features or elements are essential for a successful launch?
- What does ‘good enough’ look like?
- Let’s aim to get MVP 1 out the door
Scenario 2: Budget Constraint
Your budget has been slashed by 40% and you need to achieve the same results…
- How would that change the way you approach this project?
- How would that impact your approach to the project?
- Would it force you to be more resourceful or creative in finding cost-effective solutions?
- What resources are essential and which resources are not?
Scenario 3: Team Constraints
Your team has suddenly halved in size…
- How would you adjust your workflow?
- How would this impact your communication strategies?
- Which roles can be assigned to others?
Constraints on the workforce can lead to a more streamlined and efficient operation, with each team member stepping up to fill crucial roles.
Scenario 4: Capacity Constraint
You are limited to only working on a single project at a time…
- What kinds of projects would you prioritise? The money makers, the new client project, your retainer client project etc.? Tip – think about what makes sense for the business.
- Would your entire team be able to be involved or would some be left idle?
- Who focuses on sales and client management to ensure there is still sufficient work coming in?
Scenario 5: Technology Constraints
You are no longer able to use any digital marketing, PMO dashboards or sales tools…
- What strategies would you use to grow?
- Which freemium tool can you leverage?
- How much previous work and IP can you repurpose?
Examples: Constraints for Small Businesses
To give a better idea of how I use constraints to run my small businesses, I have provided two examples of constraints I use daily.
Time constraint
Running a small business where, on any given day, I am consulting to a number of clients in varying-sized organisations across different industries. Each comes with its own set of unique circumstances. As much as my business thrives off having the privilege of working with such a wide range of amazing clients, I need to ensure that I make smart use of my time.
I increase productivity by setting time constraints for each client-related task. Some tasks, naturally, require more time than others, but I ensure that I work as fast as possible while maintaining attention to detail and quality.
Budget constraint
Offering competitively priced solutions to our clients is non-negotiable. Another non-negotiable is ensuring I still deliver the highest possible quality and provide the best possible professional service to my clients.
To solve this, I carefully calculate internal budget constraints. I don’t over-resource a project and I meticulously scope and cost each project. This way I hold myself accountable for delivering against a company non-negotiable: offering completely priced solutions to our clients.
Adding Constraints to Your Toolbox
When it comes to decision-making, constraints serve as guardrails that streamline a process and enhance its effectiveness. They act as catalysts for clarity, profitability, and ultimately, better outcomes. If you want to learn more about the power of constraints for decision-making, send an email to [email protected].
