In project management, what does the term "scope creep" signify?

Scope creep refers to the uncontrolled changes or continuous growth in a project's scope that can occur after the project has begun. This phenomenon is often the result of stakeholders requesting additional features or modifications without corresponding adjustments to resources, timelines, or budget. As these changes accumulate, they can significantly affect project performance, leading to delays, increased costs, and potential failure to meet the project's original objectives.

Managing scope creep is an essential part of project management, requiring careful documentation, communication, and change control processes to ensure that any modifications are thoughtfully considered and controlled. Addressing scope creep effectively helps maintain focus on the project goals and ensures that the final deliverable aligns with the initial project requirements.