Tuesday 4 December 2007

scope creep

One of the major problems when it comes to planning a project is "scope creep". You have probably met this already, when someone says "by the way, whilst you are doing it, can you just add ...". It is those three little words "can you just". The speaker obviously thinks that what is being asked for is a small extension to what is already being done. What they may not realise is that their request may force a complete change to the design!
Scope creep is not helpful to those working on the project as it means more work within the same deadline, or else the end of the project is for ever being delayed (the never-ending project). Both of these lead to a demoralised staff.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

It seems to me that this is really about communication, or rather a lack of it. Of course the speaker may assume that the addition they are asking for is small, but what they are really after is your input. Particularly if that assumption is incorrect. Its precisely at this stage that anyone (you?) with a more detailed understanding of the implications, should be entering into the dialogue. Its not good keeping quiet, then bemoaning your lot afterwards.