What is a project scope statement?
According to Wootton (2024), a project scope statement is a crucial document that outlines the specific outcomes, goals, and boundaries of a project. It clearly describes what will be achieved by the undertaking the project and what will not be included which helps to avoid confusion and chaos.
Contents of the Scope Statement
- Purpose
- Goals
- Key Stakeholders
- Major Deliverables
- Constraints
- Assumptions
- Acceptance Criteria
Throughout the project life cycle, the scope statement will act as a reference point to ensure that all activities stay aligned with the agreed upon scope and project deliverables. If you are still eager to about this paramount project document, check out the link below.
Scope Creep
What is meant by "scope creep"?
Scope creep refers to any deviation to the initial scope which might be caused by wasting money, decreasing satisfaction resulting to the project value not to be met (R, Larson & E, Larson, 2009).
Common Causes of Scope Creep
- Lack of clarity and depth understanding of specification document
- Unmanaged direct contact with the project team & clients
- Lack of foresight and planning when you are directly involved
- Poorly defined initial requirements
- Making impossible promises, killing developers with tight time frames
Always work on high priority levels and avoid setting unrealistic deadlines to avert the occurrence of a scope creep. If you are still hungry for more on scope creep and how to prevent it, check out the link below.
Priority Level | Scope | Time | Budget |
---|---|---|---|
1.Constraint | 1 | ||
2. Optimize | 2 | ||
3. Accept | 3 |