What term describes a limitation or restriction in a design process?

The term that describes a limitation or restriction in a design process is "constraint." In engineering and technology design, constraints can refer to various factors such as budgetary limits, material availability, time restrictions, regulatory requirements, or specific project goals. Identifying constraints is critical because they help guide the decision-making process throughout the design. By understanding these limitations, designers can more effectively plan and create solutions that fit within the established parameters, ensuring that the final product is feasible and meets the necessary standards and requirements. This is distinct from concepts like innovation or invention, which focus more on the creation of new ideas or products rather than the boundaries within which those ideas must operate.