The power of constraints in software design

· Andreos · 2 min read
design engineering philosophy

The power of constraints in software design

In software engineering, we often hear about flexibility, extensibility, and keeping options open. But there’s an underappreciated counterpoint: constraints make us better.

The Paradox of Choice

More options don’t always lead to better outcomes. In fact, unlimited flexibility often results in:

  • Analysis paralysis - Teams spend more time debating than building
  • Inconsistent patterns - Every developer solves the same problem differently
  • Maintenance nightmares - Too many ways to do the same thing

Productive Constraints

The best systems embrace limitations:

1. Convention over Configuration

Rails pioneered this idea: make the common case trivial by establishing conventions. When everyone follows the same patterns, the cognitive load drops dramatically.

2. Opinionated Frameworks

Tools like Go or Elm deliberately limit your choices. Fewer ways to format code, fewer language features, fewer footguns. The result? More time solving actual problems.

3. Architecture Decision Records

Document your constraints explicitly. “We only use PostgreSQL” or “All services must be stateless” aren’t restrictions—they’re clarity.

The Creative Catalyst

Constraints don’t just reduce chaos; they spark creativity. When you can’t solve a problem the “obvious” way, you’re forced to think differently. Some of the most elegant solutions come from working within tight boundaries.

Consider:

  • Twitter’s 140 characters - Led to an entirely new form of communication
  • Game Boy’s limited hardware - Produced incredibly creative games
  • Unix philosophy - Do one thing well, compose with pipes

Finding the Right Balance

Not all constraints are good. The key is choosing constraints that:

  1. Align with your values - Support the outcomes you care about
  2. Are liberating, not limiting - Free you from decisions that don’t matter
  3. Can evolve - Review and adjust as you learn

In Practice

At DOIS, we embrace constraints:

  • TypeScript everywhere - No debate about typing
  • Minimal dependencies - Default to standard library
  • Boring technology - Proven tools over shiny new ones

These aren’t rules for rules’ sake. They’re intentional choices that let us focus on what matters: building things that work.

Conclusion

Next time you’re designing a system, ask: “What constraint would make this simpler?” The answer might surprise you.