Though 6.2 Discussion: Scope Creep can be defined as changes to the project scope, it often also forces changes to the other plans, such as schedule, quality, risk, etc. Hence, it is important to integrate changes in one plan element with changes in the other elements. A major cause of scope creep is poor stakeholder involvement. For example, if a department / function is assigned a major deliverable for the project, but the functional manager is not involved in the planning process, it might lead to conflicts with that department / function, which in turn might lead to scope change requests. These scope change requests, if approved and implemented, might cause schedule delays and cost overruns.
Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:
- Determine how to prevent or mitigate scope creep.
Resources
- Article: Top Five Causes of Scope Creep and What to Do About Them
- Website: IWU Resources Page
- Website: Evaluating Sources
- Video: Project Management Scope Creep: 7 Top Tips to Prevent It
- [Note: The inclusion of publicly-accessible video links in your courses and program should not be considered a recommendation or endorsement of any products or services mentioned within them.]
Background Information
Identification of sources of scope creep, and then preventing or mitigating them, is crucial for project success. Often, early stakeholder involvement helps mitigate potential change requests that might surface later in the project.
Instructions
- Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
- Read the article, Top Five Causes of Scope Creep and What to Do About Them.
- Watch the video, Project Management Scope Creep: 7 Top Tips to Prevent It! (7:34 min).
- Navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following prompt(s):
- Identify and discuss at least four potential sources of scope creep in your Integrative Project.
- How do you plan to prevent/mitigate them?
- In contrast to some of your prior courses, your initial post is due Day Three of the workshop, not Day Four.
- Your initial post on 6-2-discussion-scope-creep should be a minimum of 200 words.
- Properly cite and reference one or more of the workshop’s sources in your original post.
- All references and citations should be in APA format.
- Review the APA Style page for information on how to cite sources and format citations and references properly.
- You may also review the OCLS Evaluating Sources page to see the criteria for credible Internet research websites.
- Read and respond to at least two of your classmates’ postings, as well as all follow-up instructor questions directed to you, by the end of the workshop. Responses should be at least 100 words.
- Your postings also should:
- Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.
- Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.
- Provide clarification to classmates’ questions and provide insight into the discussion.
Requirements: 200