Situational constraints are external factors that inhibit workers’ performance.
For instance, a worker requires certain supplies to perform their job properly and efficiently but are hampered by time-consuming procedures for procuring these tools. If the worker constantly has to spend an excessive amount of time and effort getting the supplies they need it interferes with the actual amount of time available to do their job. Additionally, situational constraints are factors which place limits on the extent to which attitudes, personal attributes, and motivation translate into behaviors and performance.
Some examples from an everyday workplace could be an uncomfortable temperature in the work area, a particularly noisy or annoying co-worker in the next cubicle, poor lighting, offensive odors, noisy machinery, or a particularly demanding supervisor.