In project management, what does "scope creep" refer to?

Scope creep specifically refers to the phenomenon where the scope of a project expands beyond its original goals and objectives without proper control or approval. This often happens due to additional features, requirements, or changes being added to a project after it has commenced, typically without corresponding adjustments to resources, timelines, or budgets.

This uncontrolled expansion can lead to significant challenges, including increased costs, delays in project completion, and misalignment with the initial project goals. It can arise from various factors such as unclear project requirements, stakeholder requests, or a lack of change control processes in place. In managing projects, it’s crucial to maintain a well-defined scope and implement robust procedures for handling any requests for changes to ensure project success.