Chapter: September 2016 - Don’t Gold Plate That Project: Scope Management and the Dangers of Scope Creep

Sheraton Imperial RTP

Abstract

Successful scope management is one of the key processes required for positive project outcomes.  Effectively maintaining a project’s scope helps ensures that all the work required, and only the work required, is completed to the satisfaction of both the team and the requesting client or organization. Agreeing on a clearly defined scope before project planning is completed (and before the execution of the project begins) with key stakeholders is essential foundation for project success. In addition, validating the scope of deliverables and buy in will secure the support needed to move ahead as each project piece is completed.

One of the most insidious of project management issues is that of scope creep. Scope creep is a situation where uncontrolled changes or continuous growth of the project's scope occur without adjustments to time, budget, or resources. Without proper management and foresight, scope creep can be the beginnings of a failed project.

In this presentation the speakers will review important scope management concepts, identify tools and techniques to avoid scope creep, address a number of scope management pitfalls including gold plating, and discuss scope management best practices.