Scope Creep

Describe a project, either personal or professional, that experienced issues related to scope creep. What specific scope creep issues occurred? How did you or other stakeholders deal with those issues at the time? Looking back on the experience now, had you been in the position of managing the project, what could you have done to better manage these issues and control the scope of the project?

According to our required text, scope creep is “the natural tendency of the client, as well as project team members, to try to improve the project’s output as the project progresses” (Portny, et al., 2008, p. 350). I’m going to write on a personal experienced issue related to scope creep. Last year I planned a vow renewal ceremony. I never consider my a planner and the event definitely proved that true. Since I didn’t have a wedding the first time around I really wanted this to be special. I was extremely clear on what I want but not very clear on instruction. My dream was in my head but never got on paper.

What specific scope creep issues occurred?

I never thought that it would turn out to e search a JOB!! My decorator and I could never get on the same page. The cost was far past what I had imagine. I thought I could be the bride and the coordinator the biggest mistake ever. My family helpers were just not on board and I was overwhelmed and under experienced.

How did you or other stakeholders deal with those issues at the time?

            I didn’t deal with the issues very well. Instance of delegating responsible to others I try to handle every thing on my own.  I knew what I wanted but not how to communicate it what others.

Looking back on the experience now, had you been in the position of managing the project, what could you have done to better manage these issues and control the scope of the project?

            If given the opportunity again I would be a better communicator. I would have hire a wedding planner to handle the event. I would have delegated responsibility to other and really just enjoyed the day.

Portny, S. E., Mantel, S. J., Meredith, J. R., Shafer, S. M., Sutton, M. M., & Kramer, B. E. (2008).Project management: Planning, scheduling, and controlling projects. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.