ASSUMPTION AND CONSTRAINT ANALYSIS – PMP Tools and Techniques

Assumption and constraint analysis is a process of identifying the underlying assumptions and constraints that may impact the success of a project. This process is typically performed during the early stages of project planning in order to ensure that all stakeholders have a shared understanding of the potential risks and challenges involved.

The PMBOK guide describes the assumption and constraint analysis as the techniques of identification and documentation of assumptions and constraints that provide a basis for developing plans to achieve objectives, managing changes, making decisions, and communicating with relevant stakeholders.

Assumptions are factors that, for planning purposes, are considered to be true, real, or certain without empirical evidence or demonstration.

Constraints are limitations imposed on the project that restrict its options and reduce its degree of freedom. There are many different techniques that can be used to perform the assumption analysis. Some common approaches include brainstorming sessions, interviews with experts, reviews of historical data, and focus groups. Regardless of the approach used, it is important to involve all relevant stakeholders in the process in order to ensure buy-in and ownership of the final results.

Check the assumptions and constraints if they pose any threat stemming from their inaccuracy, instability, inconsistency, or incompleteness.

Assumption Analysis