What is scope creep in project management?

Scope creep refers to the tendency for a project's requirements and deliverables to expand beyond its original scope without following formal change management processes. This often occurs when additional features, tasks, or changes are added incrementally, often without proper evaluation or documentation, leading to potential misalignment of project goals and objectives.

Choosing this answer emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining clear communication and strict adherence to defined project boundaries. When changes are not formally managed, it can result in misunderstanding among stakeholders, resource overextension, and difficulties in meeting project timelines and budgets. This can ultimately jeopardize the overall success of the project. Through understanding scope creep, project managers can implement necessary controls and communicate effectively to handle changes systematically.