Fast, good, cheap, pick two.

You can have it fast, good, or cheap—but only two of the three. This project management triangle helps set realistic expectations for any project or product.

You can only pick two.

The Project Management Triangle

Also known as the "iron triangle" or "triple constraint," this principle states that you cannot simultaneously optimize for speed, quality, and cost. You must choose which two attributes matter most and accept trade-offs on the third.

The Three Combinations

  • Fast + Good = Expensive: High-quality work delivered quickly requires more resources and costs more.
  • Fast + Cheap = Low Quality: Rushing a project with limited budget means cutting corners on quality.
  • Good + Cheap = Slow: Achieving high quality on a tight budget requires more time and patience.

Why This Matters

Understanding this trade-off helps manage expectations in projects, whether you're building software, creating content, or delivering services. Be explicit about which two attributes you're prioritizing, and communicate the inevitable compromise on the third.

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