Traffic control as an example of constraints

There are many Types of constraints. One good example that has been presented in the Cynefin Basecamp Nov 2023 is traffic control systems.

The Swindon Magic Roundabout (image from The Brilliant Sorcery of England's 7-Circle Magic Roundabout (opens new window)):

From Unsplash: Photo by Sabrina Sölch on Unsplash (opens new window)

There are types of constraints:

• Governing/enabling
  • White circle on the roundabout
  • Rule of the road, speed limit signs
• Internal/external
  • Internal: Knowledge of drivers following the rules
  • External: Lane markings
• Connecting/containing
  • Containing: The lanes contains the road users
  • Connecting: Traffic light
• Permeable/Flexible/Rigid
  • The roundabout is more flexible than a traffic light. If a traffic light is still on at night despite traffic, it becomes ineffective. Roundabout on the other hand let the user decide on itself.
• Dark constraint
  • Morale: A person is still using the cycling lane despite no vehicles being around.