How do you prefer to address scope creep in the projects you manage?
Changes in scope are a frequent occurrence. In construction, they may happen because a client changes their mind, or an unknown was uncovered during demolition. In technology, scope change requests may occur because a competitor released a new feature, or a new requirement was uncovered. Regardless of the source of the change, project managers are required to assess the request and determine how to effectively meet the needs of their clients. Interviewers ask this question to learn how a candidate plans to handle the change that occurs during a project.
Remember to demonstrate that you are flexible and willing to work scope change requests into the original plan if possible. Interviewers appreciate candidates that understand how to shift priorities without assuming changes to time and budget are required.
"One of the first things I do is consider scope creep before a project even begins. I strategically develop the project plan to allocate time and money for revisions and new scope requests. Things shift regularly, and building in a plan that allows for and understands the need for change helps things to run more smoothly.
I also like to use a priority-based approach to scope creep when a project is in flight. I always ask the client and the team to help develop the concept of must-haves versus nice-to-haves. When a new request comes in, we prioritize it among the other must-have items. I find that clients are usually willing to let some things go if it means including a new must-have feature that adds a lot of value to the project.
Finally, I ask the team to focus first on developing minimally viable products where it makes sense. We deliver that first, gather feedback, and then scale the remaining work appropriately. From there, we typically end up only adding what is absolutely necessary to complete the project, and we identify major changes as early in the process as possible."
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