What is scope creep and how to prevent it

Scope creep, a common challenge in project management, occurs when a project's requirements grow beyond its original scope, leading to extended timelines, increased costs, and compromised quality. This phenomenon can arise from stakeholders requesting additional features without considering resource and timeline impacts. To prevent scope creep, it is crucial to establish clear project goals, define the project scope through a charter, and maintain effective communication among all stakeholders. Regular status updates and a formal change management process can help manage expectations and adapt to necessary changes in a controlled manner. Scope creep can be initiated by various parties, including team members, users, project sponsors, and both internal and external stakeholders, often due to inadequate planning, shifting requirements, and poor communication. Preventing scope creep involves engaging stakeholders early, setting realistic expectations, and reviewing project scope regularly to ensure alignment and timely identification of potential issues.