What is "scope creep" in project management?

Scope creep refers to the phenomenon in project management where there is an uncontrolled and continuous addition of tasks, features, or requirements to a project beyond its originally defined scope. This can occur without appropriate adjustments to time, cost, and resources, which can lead to a variety of project challenges, such as delays, budget overruns, or resource strain.

When scope creep happens, project managers and teams may struggle to maintain control over the project's direction, as stakeholders may introduce new ideas or modifications based on evolving needs or expectations. Therefore, effectively managing scope is critical to ensuring that projects are completed successfully and within the agreed-upon parameters. It's essential to document and track changes and formally assess their impact on the project's overall delivery, which underscores the importance of a clear scope definition from the onset.

In contrast, the other options represent different concepts in project management that do not encapsulate the essence of scope creep. The increase in the budget without approval pertains to financial mismanagement, while a documented agreement on tasks focuses on planning rather than changes occurring during execution. The process of formalizing project completion relates to closing out a project, distinct from ongoing scope changes.