What does the term 'scope creep' signify in project management?

The term 'scope creep' in project management refers to the uncontrolled expansion of project scope without any corresponding adjustments to time, cost, and resources. This phenomenon typically occurs when new features, tasks, or requirements are added to a project after the initial planning phase, often without proper evaluation or authorization.

When scope creep happens, it can lead to various issues, including delays, budget overruns, and resource strain, as project managers may find themselves trying to meet the original deadlines and budgets while accommodating additional requirements. It emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the project scope and effectively managing any changes that arise to avoid detrimental impacts on the project’s success. Maintaining strict control over changes and ensuring that all stakeholders agree on project deliverables is critical to prevent scope creep from undermining project objectives.