What does the term "scope creep" refer to in project management?

Scope creep refers to the uncontrolled expansion of project scope without corresponding adjustments to time, cost, and resources. This phenomenon occurs when new features, tasks, or requirements are added to a project after it has already started, often without the necessary approval processes or considerations of budget and timelines.

When scope creep happens, it can lead to project delays, budget overruns, and resource constraints, as the project team may find themselves stretched thin trying to accommodate the new demands without a formal change management process in place. This is detrimental to project success because it undermines the original project objectives and can create confusion among stakeholders regarding project deliverables and expectations.

In contrast, the other options refer to different aspects of project management. Planned expansion of project requirements and controlled addition of features can be beneficial when handled properly through a structured process. Immediate alteration of project timelines doesn't encompass the concept of scope change, which more closely relates to overall project requirements rather than timelines alone.