Guide to Scope Creep - PMBOK Guide Seventh Edition

What is Scope Creep?
Scope Creep, often known as project scope creep, refers to changes, continuous or uncontrolled growth in a project’s scope, at any point after the project begins. This can occur when the scope of a project is not properly defined, documented, or controlled. It is generally considered a negative occurrence, and thus, should be avoided.

Why is it important?
Understanding scope creep is essential because it can result in projects going over budget, missing deadlines, and failing to meet the project’s objectives. Scope creep can also cause a project to lose its direction if not carefully managed. Managing and controlling scope creep can often lead to a successful project.

How does scope creep work?
Scope creep can occur when changes are made to the scope of a project without corresponding increases in resources, schedule, or budget. This can result in the perceived need to continually expand the scope of the project while maintaining the same cost, schedule, and resources.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Scope Creep
When answering questions about scope creep during an exam:
-Emphasize the importance of correctly defining, documenting and controlling the project scope to prevent scope creep.
-Highlights the negative impacts of scope creep - project failure, cost overrun, and missed deadlines.
-Write about how to control scope creep – through frequent communication, avoiding gold plating, by using a well-documented scope statement, constant monitoring, using project management software, and client involvement.
-Remember, if changes are necessary, they should be documented, assessed for impacts, approved, and communicated to all stakeholders(Change Management)