What best describes the role of constraints in the design process?

Constraints are essential elements in the design process as they define the specific conditions and requirements that a design must satisfy. These can include factors like budget limitations, material properties, legal regulations, and user needs. By establishing a clear framework within which designers must operate, constraints guide the development process and ensure that the final product is feasible and functional within the specified parameters. This structure helps prioritize features and function in order to create effective solutions that adhere to the necessary guidelines. Understanding and working within these constraints can lead to innovative solutions that might not have been considered if the design process were entirely open-ended.