Constraining the Canvas

Expanding scope takes no discipline. Anyone can keep adding features. Real engineering is defined by what you refuse to build.

Treat a project like a small physical canvas. Constrain the boundaries from day one to kill feature creep before it starts.

Before committing to code, spike early to see what the stack will actually tolerate. Find the technical dead ends while changes are still cheap, ensuring your boundaries stay realistic.

Reliability doesn’t come from massive scope; it comes from sharp boundaries. Keep the canvas small and execute with precision.