The Constraint reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Constraint

A constraint is a limitation of possibilities. In mathematics, a constraint is a restriction of the feasible solutions in an optimization problem.

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.

See also

• list of theory of constraints topics
• restraint
• Donella Meadows' twelve leverage points to intervene in a system
• Oulipo, Outrapo

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For constraints in literature, see constrained writing and in theatre, see Theatrical constraints.

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Constraint is the name of punk band formed in 2003 by mark "no mates" fernando. After moving to West Bridgford he got really pissed off and so diverted all of his anger to music. Constraint draw their influences from bands such as Sepultura, Anti-flag, Crass and Amen - mixing heavy metal riffs with punk attitude. Though only been in existance for a limited time constraint have recorded the most acclaimed punk album of, arguably, the century. Casey Chaos once said "contraint are the best".

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