Primavera P6 Training || Hard vs Soft Constraints Explained | Primary & Secondary Constraints

Constraints can make or break a Primavera P6 schedule — especially when they’re used incorrectly.

In this video, I explain Hard Constraints vs Soft Constraints in Primavera P6, including how Primary and Secondary Constraints actually work, which one P6 prioritises, and when each should (and should not) be used.

This session is designed to help planners avoid over-constrained schedules and maintain logic-driven, realistic programmes.

🔍 What you’ll learn in this video:

What constraints are in planning and why they are used

The two levels of constraints in Primavera P6:

Primary Constraint (main control – only one per activity)

Secondary Constraint (additional control to create date windows)

Difference between Hard Constraints and Soft Constraints

Common hard constraints:

Mandatory Start / Mandatory Finish

Common soft constraints:

Start On or After / Finish On or Before

Start On / Finish On

How P6 prioritises:
1️⃣ Primary Constraint
2️⃣ Secondary Constraint
3️⃣ Logic relationships

Real examples showing how constraints affect float and flexibility

Best-practice guidance:

When to use constraints

When to rely on logic instead

How to avoid hiding delays

Understanding constraints properly helps planners:
✔ Maintain schedule flexibility
✔ Protect the critical path
✔ Avoid misleading dates and float loss
✔ Build credible, logic-driven programmes

🎯 Use constraints carefully — logic should always come first.

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⚠️ Disclaimer

The content on The Planner’s Way is provided for educational and informational purposes only.
It is not intended as professional, financial, legal, or medical advice.

While we share planning concepts, tools, and frameworks, every project and organisation is different. Viewers are encouraged to use their own judgment and seek professional guidance where appropriate.



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