What is "scope creep"?

Scope creep refers to the uncontrolled expansion of project scope without adjustments to time, cost, and resources. This phenomenon typically occurs when new requirements or features are added after the project has already started, often leading to significant changes that were not part of the original project plan.

The reason that this option is correct lies in the understanding that scope creep can adversely affect project timelines and budgets, creating challenges for project managers who are tasked with maintaining the integrity of the original plan. Managing scope effectively is crucial for achieving project success, as allowing scope creep can lead to delays, increased costs, and potentially the failure to meet the project objectives as initially defined.

The other options refer to different aspects of project management that do not encapsulate the essence of scope creep. Formal approval of project changes indicates a controlled process, which is the opposite of creep. Controlled expansion of project budget suggests a planned and managed increase, contrasting with the unexpected nature of scope creep. A method to streamline project timelines implies looking for efficiency and optimization, again not resonating with the uncontrolled nature of scope creep.