What is "scope creep" in project management?

Scope creep refers to the phenomenon in project management where the scope of a project gradually expands beyond the original boundaries without proper authorization or control. This often occurs when new features, tasks, or deliverables are added to the project without corresponding adjustments in resources, budget, or timeline, which can lead to confusion, misalignment, and potential project failure.

When the scope increases uncontrollably, it undermines the project's goals and objectives, as stakeholders may have different expectations regarding what will be delivered. Proper management practices, such as change control processes, are essential to mitigate scope creep, ensuring that any additions to project scope are carefully evaluated, documented, and integrated into the overall project plan.

Other aspects like increased project costs, delays in the timeline, or reduction in resources can certainly be consequences of scope creep, but they do not define what scope creep itself is. The core issue is the uncontrolled changes that lead to a shifting project landscape, making the correct understanding of the term vital for successful project management.