CSLB Class B General Contractor's License Practice Exam

"Scope creep" in project management refers to uncontrolled changes or continuous growth in a project's scope, often without corresponding adjustments in resources, time, and budget. This phenomenon typically occurs when new features or functionalities are added to the project after it has officially started, usually due to lack of proper change control processes or insufficient definitions of the project's original scope.

When the scope expands beyond what was initially agreed upon, it can lead to issues such as budget overruns, missed deadlines, and overall project mismanagement. Successful project management involves clearly defining the project scope at the outset and implementing effective controls to manage any potential changes. By recognizing "scope creep," project managers can work to ensure that any changes are properly evaluated and documented, allowing for a more organized approach to managing the project’s objectives and deliverables.