/skoʊp kriːp/
Definition
A narrative sequel automatically generated when stakeholders read a Specifiction and utter the cursed phrase, “Could we just…?” Each iteration expands the universe of deliverables while maintaining the illusion of the same timeline and budget.
Common Manifestations
- Features added “for parity” with a competitor no one can name.
- “Nice-to-haves” that mysteriously become launch blockers.
- Documentation updates that spawn new sub-projects requiring their own project managers.
- Roadmaps that double in size while retaining their original delivery date through “optimistic resourcing.”
Usage Example
“The MVP was fine until marketing got involved—now it’s pure Scope Creep.”
HR Guidance
Treat Scope Creep as a contagious narrative disorder. Quarantine early with phrases like “out of scope,” “phase two,” or “great idea—let’s backlog it.”
Remember: every story arc needs an ending, but this one never gets one.