Final answer:
When exploring the time-cost trade-off, the Design/Scope variable should be stable as it dictates resources and project duration, ensuring accurate planning and project success.
Step-by-step explanation:
When first exploring the time-cost trade-off of a project, the Design/Scope variable should be considered to be stable.
This is because the design, once established, often dictates both the resources needed and the duration of the project. A well thought out and stable design is crucial because it forms the foundation upon which the project is built.
Analogous to the R/P ratio, which looks at the resources versus production over time, determining a project’s resources and scope stability is essential for accurate project planning and successful execution. Misjudging the design or scope can lead to misallocation of resources and can either extend the time frame unnecessarily or increase costs beyond the original budget.