What does “scope creep” refer to in Program Management?

“Scope creep” is identified as the unauthorized expansion or change in a project’s scope without adjustments to time, cost, and resources. This phenomenon often occurs when additional features, requirements, or tasks are added to a project after it has started, without properly managing the implications this has on the original plan. When scope creep occurs, it can lead to project delays, increased costs, and overstretched resources as teams work to accommodate the new demands that were not part of the initial agreement.

In program management, clear initial scope definition is crucial for project success. When scope creep happens, it indicates a failure in adhering to scope management practices, which can disrupt the balance of the project and affect overall performance. Addressing scope creep effectively requires close monitoring and control mechanisms, ensuring that any changes are documented, analyzed, and approved before implementation. This helps maintain the integrity of the project and ensures that any scope changes are aligned with the program’s objectives and constraints.