What is the term for when additional project requests result in increased project scope?

The term "scope creep" refers to the phenomenon where the scope of a project gradually expands beyond its original objectives due to additional requests or requirements without corresponding adjustments in resources, timeframe, or budget. This can occur when stakeholders request changes, additions, or enhancements without formal approval processes, leading to an accumulation of alterations that may jeopardize the project's overall success.

In project management, scope creep can be particularly problematic because it can lead to project delays, increased costs, and complications in project coordination. Recognizing and managing scope creep involves establishing clear boundaries and maintaining open communication with stakeholders about what is included in the project's scope versus what would require a formal change request.

Contrast this with the other terms: "add-ons" typically refer to enhancements that are officially recognized and documented, "deliverable increase" suggests a specific improvement in measurable outputs rather than an uncontrolled expansion of the project, and "effort expansion" does not specifically denote the uncontrolled change in project parameters or requirements in the same way that scope creep does.