How is "scope creep" best defined in the context of project management?

In project management, "scope creep" is best defined as uncontrolled changes to the project scope. This phenomenon occurs when additional features, tasks, or requirements are introduced to a project without proper assessment of the impact on time, budget, and resources. It often results from the natural evolution of project ideas, where stakeholders continuously suggest new ideas or enhancements after the project has begun, leading to scope expansion beyond what was initially agreed upon.

This can jeopardize the project’s objectives and timelines, making it crucial for project managers to establish clear scope definitions and change control processes to manage expectations and maintain focus. The distinction here is that scope creep represents changes that are not formally documented or approved, as opposed to enhancements or adjustments that are planned and communicated effectively.

The other choices do not fully capture the essence of scope creep; for example, increasing efficiency without extra resources relates to optimization rather than uncontrolled changes, while modifications made within the original plan imply a controlled process. Delaying the project for better results does not inherently relate to scope changes but rather to timing and scheduling considerations.