What is the best definition of "scope creep" in project management?

The best definition of "scope creep" in project management is characterized as unmonitored changes to project requirements. Scope creep occurs when the project scope expands beyond its original parameters without proper control or approval, often resulting in unforeseen challenges and complications. This usually happens due to a lack of rigorous change management processes or when stakeholders introduce new requirements or modifications without formally assessing their implications on project timeline, cost, and resources.

Understanding scope creep is crucial for project managers, as it can lead to budget overruns, missed deadlines, and overall project failure if not managed appropriately. By clearly defining project scope at the outset and maintaining strict change control standards, project managers can mitigate the risks of scope creep, ensuring that all changes are monitored, assessed, and documented properly before implementation.