In construction, what does the term 'scope creep' refer to?

The term 'scope creep' refers specifically to unauthorized changes or additions to project specifications that occur after the initial project scope has been defined. This can happen when clients or stakeholders request new features or modifications without accounting for the impact on the project's budget, timeline, or resources. As a result, scope creep can lead to challenges in managing project objectives effectively, often causing confusion about what the final deliverable should include.

Understanding scope creep is crucial in construction management because it highlights the importance of adhering to the original project plan and obtaining proper approvals for any changes. Effective management includes clear communication with all stakeholders and a well-defined change order process to handle any necessary alterations to the project scope. This practice helps to ensure that any adjustments are documented, evaluated for their impact, and formally approved before being implemented, thus keeping the project on track and within its planned resources.