What is scope and scope creep?
What is scope and scope creep?
Scope, or project scope, is made up of the requirements of the final product being worked on during any given project. Scope creep (often called requirement creep, kitchen sink syndrome, or feature creep) is when the project’s scope continues to grow and change as the project is carried out.
What causes feature creep?
What causes feature creep? Feature creep is typically the result of poor planning, insufficient product strategy, and misaligned priorities. Typically, requests for new features are added after the project has started, are out of scope, and the changes are not properly reviewed.
What is the scope of a project?
Project scope is a way to set boundaries on your project and define exactly what goals, deadlines, and project deliverables you’ll be working towards. By clarifying your project scope, you can ensure you hit your project goals and objectives without delay or overwork.
How do you manage scope creep?
Perhaps the most popular way to address scope creep is to push the new requirements into the future. You may be able to work with a project manager to create a new “phase” of the project to accommodate the additional requirements.
How to handle scope creep?
1) Understand the project requirements and align with the client. Begin with the end in mind. Make sure you truly understand the client’s goals and requirements. 2) Create a detailed project plan and stick to it. It’s a whole lot easier to avoid scope creep when you have a clear plan in place from the get-go. 3) Don’t be afraid to say no. Saying no to a client may seem scary—but sometimes it’s the best way to help your client achieve their goals. 4) Talk about how changes impact the project schedule. A date is a date. 5) Include a process for changing the scope. This is equal parts setting expectations and creating process.
What are two common causes of scope creep?
The primary causes of scope creep are: Poor Requirements Analysis. Not Involving Users Early Enough. Underestimating the Complexity of the Project. Lack of Change Control. Gold Plating.
How to combat project scope creep?
Start Every Project with a Contract and a Backup Plan. The contract serves to establish expectations.