Final answer:
A written plan that identifies a problem, its criteria, and its constraints is called a specification. These are used particularly in engineering to guide the design process to ensure that solutions meet both standards and limitations.
Step-by-step explanation:
A written plan that identifies a problem to be solved, its criteria, and its constraints is known as a specification. This is because a specification serves as a detailed description of the problem, sets out what needs to be achieved, and establishes limitations or conditions that must be adhered to. For example, in engineering, a specification will outline the requirements a new product must meet and any limitations, such as size or cost, that can't be exceeded.
The identification and definition of criteria and constraints are crucial steps in the design process. Criteria refer to the measurable standards or attributes of a design, whereas constraints represent the conditions or limits within which the design must operate. Combined, these two elements help shape the approach to problem-solving by narrowing down the potential solutions to those that can meet the established requirements while functioning within the given limitations. Specifications are essential in various fields but are particularly prevalent in engineering, where they guide the creation and evaluation of designs to ensure they meet the necessary standards and restrictions.