What does the term "scope creep" refer to in project management?

The term "scope creep" refers specifically to the uncontrolled expansion of project scope, which often occurs when new features or requirements are added to a project after the initial planning phase, without appropriate adjustments to time, budget, or resources. This phenomenon can lead to project delays, increased costs, and ultimately, difficulties in meeting project objectives, as the original plans become increasingly difficult to manage due to changes that are not formally documented or approved.

Maintaining a clear and controlled scope is crucial in project management to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. Effective communication and change management processes are essential to prevent scope creep. In contrast, the other choices do not accurately capture the essence of scope creep. Adding resources without approval, completing tasks ahead of schedule, or reducing project costs do not address the concept of uncontrolled changes to the project’s requirements and objectives.