Three months into a project and we're already 20% over budget thanks to continuous scope changes. It started as a straightforward implementation, now we're adding features that were never in the original plan and I'm watching my contingency fund evaporate. The stakeholders keep saying it's just a small addition but those small additions are adding up fast. I've read that 40% of companies experience scope creep, and I'm definitely part of that statistic now. The KPMG stat that only 36% of organizations deliver projects within budget is starting to make a lot of sense. I've tried implementing change control processes but there's constant pressure to "just accommodate it" without formal approval but by the time I get sign off to adjust the budget, we're already committed to the work and over allocated on resources.
I might have to intentionally start taking steps to enforce budget boundaries, but how do I do that without coming across as inflexible? how do you push back on scope changes late in the project when leadership wants it done but doesn't want to hear about budget impacts?
I might have to intentionally start taking steps to enforce budget boundaries, but how do I do that without coming across as inflexible? how do you push back on scope changes late in the project when leadership wants it done but doesn't want to hear about budget impacts?
