In this VUCA world, product iterations expanding beyond the original plans is not a surprise, dare I say, a requirement even. However, with constant changing of plans, it is crucial to ensure the quality of the product. One way to do that is - For any new feature added, on top of the analysis of usual reach, impact, confidence, and effort, analyze the impact of the additional feature on the 'quality' and 'timeline' of the product - Proceed only when there is a clear benefit observed with the addition of a new feature.

When product iterations face scope creep, I focus on maintaining quality by tightening control over priorities. First, I reassess the project scope with the team and stakeholders, clearly identifying core features that must be delivered and setting firm boundaries on additional requests. I use a prioritization framework to evaluate any new features, ensuring they align with the project’s main goals. Regular check-ins help track progress and spot any deviations early. I also dedicate specific resources to quality assurance throughout the process, making sure that as we add or refine features, the core product remains stable and meets our standards.

Scope creep is something that always has to be monitored in developing products. Part of the job is fielding requirements from clients and key stakeholders along the development journey. However the product vision and goals need to remain the north star. Ensure that any extra requests align with the product goals and assess how they will add to the KPIs. Having these boundaries really help in limiting scope creep and maintaining quality. Yet, sometimes it might be required due to market shifts. Therefore, if requests are adjacent to product goals; establish how the scope creep will impact in short and long term - support with data and research. Keep communication open. Keep reviewing the process and stay agile to any changes needed.

To manage scope creep without compromising quality, I focus on these strategies: • Prioritization: Use frameworks like MoSCoW to focus on essential features first. For example, in a healthcare app, we delayed less critical features to keep quality high. • Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate scope limits and introduce a change control process to evaluate new requests. • Regular QA: Perform frequent testing to ensure new features don’t disrupt stability. • Time Management: Adjust deadlines for necessary changes without rushing. • Stakeholder Communication: Regularly discuss the risks of scope creep to maintain quality.

When product iterations start facing scope creep, it’s like trying to pack for a weekend trip and ending up with enough luggage for a month-long vacation—too much, too fast, and something’s bound to get lost. To keep quality uncompromised, you’ve got to be ruthless about priorities. Start by identifying the must-haves from the nice-to-haves, and draw the line with laser precision. Set clear checkpoints and stick to them like a stubborn mule, ensuring that the core product isn’t drowning under unnecessary features. Communicate openly with the team—remind them that less is often more, especially when it comes to maintaining quality over quantity. Keep it tight, and you’ll keep it right.

Quando você trabalha oferecendo serviços as necessidades de aumento de escopo são recorrentes, com isso você deve estar preparados previamente para ajustes no que foi oferecido. É importante nesses casos estar atento as limitações, quanto maior seu preparo maior sua flexibilidade mas em tudo sempre haverá um limite. Esteja próximo do seu cliente, se antecipe as necessidades e proponha limites de forma clara e construitiva, no fim o que nossos clientes querem é clareza e visibilidade.

To effectively prevent product scope creep, it is essential to keep your key stakeholders engaged every week. During the initial discovery sessions, ensure that your Minimum Viable Product (MVP) requirements are clearly defined. Obtain email approval or sign-off on these product requirements before beginning sprint development work. Additionally, encourage active participation from end users in user acceptance testing (UAT) during every sprint. Consistent feedback throughout each sprint can help prevent scope creep and enhance product quality. Finally, do your best to adhere to the sprint schedule and manage any potential risks proactively.

As humans, overcomplicating things seems to be our favorite thing to do ... and we're really good at it! Much more challenging to keep it simple. 😄 Don't let GREAT be the enemy of GOOD!