Define 'scope creep' in project management.

Scope creep refers to the gradual expansion of a project's scope beyond its original objectives and constraints, usually without formal approval or adequate adjustments to resources, budget, or timeline. This phenomenon typically occurs when new features, tasks, or requirements are added to the project without proper review and documentation.

The essence of scope creep lies in the unauthorized nature of these changes. When stakeholders or team members introduce alterations or new demands that were not part of the initial project plan, it can lead to confusion, mismanagement, and ultimately, project delays. This situation illustrates the importance of adhering to a well-defined project scope, ensuring that any changes are formally documented and evaluated for their potential impact on the overall project.

In contrast, changes made with stakeholder approval, adjustments aimed at financial goals, or tasks added to enhance efficiency may all be legitimate components of project management when properly executed. Such changes usually undergo a structured process of assessment and approval to ensure that they align with the project's goals and do not compromise its success.