Scope Creep and the New Suit

 

Last February, in preparation for the AtTask User Conference (WorkOut 2011), I went shopping for a new pair of slacks and wrote about what we affectionately call the "Scope Creep Sport Coat." As mentioned in that post, I'm not a big fan of shopping for clothes, but once in a while I need to bite the bullet and wear something other than a comfortable pair of jeans and a fleece sweater.

Professional obligations this summer required a new suit, causing me to stop by the local men's clothing store earlier last week. Remembering my experience from last February, I announced to my wife that I would be buying a new suit and that she would not be invited to come along. "Remember the scope creep sport coat episode," I said.

Much to the dismay of the clothier, it felt strangely empowering to say, "No, I don't need a new belt," and "Don't even bother to show me shirts and ties...I have what I came in for."

If you sell suits for a living, you know that ties, shirts, belts and other such items can add up to a pretty nice sale. By cutting off the salesman at the pass, I was able to keep scope creep under control (however I did a buy a little nicer suit than I had originally intended). It was very satisfying not to get sucked into the "Ty, that really looks nice" vortex this time.

I believe keeping project scope creep under control works the same way. I knew there would be a push to increase the amount of my intended purchase before I walked into the store. I was prepared and able (with my mitigation plan) to avoid blowing the doors of my budget. Scope creep starts innocently enough, but if you're prepared for it, you'll recognize it for what it is and it can be avoided or minimized. Addressing potential scope creep early, before it gets out of control, is a sound strategy.

Of course, my wife hasn't seen the suit I picked out yet...