What is Scope Creep?
Scope creep is the increase of the project requirements beyond the initially planned project’s scope. Scope creep could includes specification changes at a very late stage or adding new functionalities to the factory design. While it seemingly starts as minor changes, it could escalate into bigger problems. As a result, there is a risk of project delay, budget overrun and quality problems. The role of architects and consultants in industrial projects is very crucial to avoid scope creep.
Reasons for scope creep
Some common reasons for scope creep are:
- Improperly created scope document: Projects with an improperly created scope document have more chances of scope creep.
- Multiple decision-makers: In projects with numerous decision-makers with no fixed approval process, they are prone to scope creep.
- Lack of Task Prioritisation: Task prioritisation is essential to avoid scope creep.
- The lack of a Change control process is often a reason for scope creep.
- Unchecked client requests.
How does Scope creep affect industrial projects?
The effect of scope creep on industrial projects depends on the following:
- Budgetary Issues: Unplanned work negatively affects the budget. Scope creep often results in additional manpower, materials, and time, thus affecting the budget.
- Timeline overruns: Incorporating new requirements delays the timelines. Delays in industrial projects are costly and impact the production schedule.
- Quality Compromises: Revised deadlines lead to shortcuts. Speed tends to take priority over quality, which impacts the quality, safety, and lifespan of the plant.
How can architects and consultants avoid scope creep in industrial projects?
Industrial projects can be thrown off track by scope creep, so it is essential to take steps to avoid scope creep. Some steps are as follows:
- Clear Scope: A well-defined project scope document helps keep the project on track and avoid scope creep. Furthermore, the scope document should meticulously detail the project’s deliverables, functionalities, and limitations.
- Communication: Open communication channels between clients, engineers, and project managers are essential. Regular design charrettes, review meetings help discuss the project, identify potential changes, and ensure everyone is on the same page. Open communication facilitates a collaborative decision-making process.
- Change Control Process: A formal process for requesting and evaluating changes helps avoid scope creep. This process helps thoroughly assess the impact on the project’s budget, schedule, and quality before any modifications are approved.
- Project Management Tools: Project management software is good for avoiding scope creep. These tools help track progress and identify potential deviations.
To conclude, these steps are crucial to keeping industrial projects on track, avoiding costly delays, and delivering the expected outcomes within budget.
