As an IT solutions provider, I've faced numerous clients whose requests would end up pushing the scope of projects beyond what was initially agreed. I've learned to protect my team by defining timeline, scope, and milestones before the project begins through detailed contracts and project briefs. Of course, there are bound to be situations where adjustments are unavoidable and necessary. In these cases, we discuss with our client how we hope to pivot and the impact that these shifts will have on the budget and timeline. We endeavor to keep communications line open and to be transparent about the progress of the project, as these can go a long way to managing client expectations.

We know adjusting to project change isn't easy. A Project Management Institute survey found that 33% of scope creep is caused by changes to project objectives and 30% by undefined goals. You must have a system to instantly respond and change to anything new or altered within the project's boundaries you set in your project plan. To help your project plan be more flexible, follow this 4-step system below to better pivot, manage expectations, and know whether something is in or out of scope. Step 1: Define scope with 1-2 telling intake form questions. Step 2: Test your change control system (can it actually shift?) Step 3: Establish a flexible communication plan. Step 4: Give execs a bird's eye view into the project's progress.

1. Find rootcause of project creep 2. Change the plan to recove and communicate with shareholders 3. Coordinate all resource and disposals at your hands 4. Escalate to the boss for support