Business creep is a term used to describe the gradual increase in scope of a project, often without the approval of the customer or stakeholders. It can occur when the project team fails to properly define and document the project’s requirements and objectives. As a result, additional features and tasks are added to the project, resulting in an increase in cost and time.
Business creep can be caused by a number of factors, including poor communication between the customer and the project team, lack of clear objectives and requirements, inadequate planning, and changes in customer needs or expectations. It can also be caused by a lack of resources or budget constraints that prevent the team from completing the project on time.
The best way to prevent business creep is to ensure that all stakeholders are involved in the planning process and that all requirements are clearly defined. The project team should also create a detailed plan with realistic timelines and budgets. Regular communication between the customer and the team is essential for keeping everyone informed about any changes or additions to the project.