What does scope creep refer to?

Scope creep refers to the addition of requirements or features to a project that go beyond the originally defined scope. This concept highlights how, during the project lifecycle, stakeholders may request new features or changes that were not part of the initial plan, often leading to challenges in maintaining the schedule, budget, and overall quality of the project. It typically occurs when there is a lack of clear project boundaries or inadequate change control processes in place.

Efforts to manage scope creep include maintaining clear communication with stakeholders, setting strict change management procedures, and ensuring all changes are carefully evaluated for their impact on the project. By understanding scope creep, project managers can work to mitigate its effects and keep projects aligned with the original objectives and constraints.