Which term describes factors that limit design choices, including cost, time, available materials, manufacturing processes, safety or environmental issues?

• A. Design brief
• B. Constraints
• C. Annotation
• D. Orthographic drawing

Answer: (B)

Constraints are the factors that limit design choices, such as cost, time, available materials, manufacturing processes, and safety or environmental issues. They define what is feasible and shape decision-making by creating boundaries that any solution must respect. For example, even if a material offers great performance, its cost or the production process required to shape it may prevent its use. The design brief outlines what needs to be achieved, while constraints set the practical limits within which that achievement must occur. An annotation and an orthographic drawing are types of documentation, not limits on design options.