Scope creep

🔎 Synonyms: change of scope, drift of objectives.

Scope creep is a common risk in project management.

It refers to a situation where the objectives, functionalities and deliverables of a project gradually increase without validation or formal communication.

The resources, budget and deadlines required to carry out the project are therefore not re-evaluated accordingly, which can lead to delays, increased costs, and more generally, a loss of control over the objectives to be achieved.

Common causes of scope creep

• Lack or insufficiency of framing on objectives.
• Insufficient communication between stakeholders.
• Lack of a change management process.
• Evolving customer demands without re-evaluating the scope.

How can it be avoided?

• Define precise and validated specifications.
• Conduct a project risk analysis.
• Implement a rigorous change management process.
• Communicate regularly with stakeholders.
• Use project management tools to track the evolution of the scope.