What does 'scope creep' refer to?

Scope creep refers to the phenomenon where there are uncontrolled changes or growth in a project's scope without proper approval and management. It often occurs when project requirements and expectations are not well-defined, leading to additional features, tasks, or goals that are added to the project after its initial planning phase. This can create significant challenges, as it can overwhelm project teams, extend timelines, and strain resources.

Effective project management involves setting clear boundaries for the scope from the outset and managing any changes via formal change control processes. By understanding scope creep, project managers and business analysts can better prepare to mitigate its effects, ensuring that projects stay on track and within budget.