Scope creep

🔎 Synonyms: change in scope, target drift.

Scope creep is a common risk in project management.

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

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

Common causes of scope creep

• Lack or inadequate definition of objectives.
• Insufficient communication between stakeholders.
• Lack of a change management process.
• Evolving customer requirements without scope reassessment.

How to avoid it?

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