Written by: Vickie Sullivan | May 26, 2022
The Biggest Cause of Scope Creep
Many client projects have last-minute developments that expand an assignment. The bigger cause of scope creep, however, are misunderstandings that come up when you help clients too soon or too late.
To prevent that kind of scope creep from happening, you must determine the best time to assist your client. And that depends on the services you provide.
2 Timelines for Offering Your Services
These two broad service categories have vastly different timelines:
• Strategy or big picture help: You want to provide services such as business model design, marketing strategy, and branding advice sooner rather than later. Experts here are used to not having a lot of details, so clients don’t need to have all the answers. What to look for here: lack of clarity. Factor in a lot of exploring if clients haven’t drilled down on their goals.
• Tactical help: If you provide web design, social media campaigns, content marketing services, etc., you will have better results when all the client’s ducks are in a row. What to look for here: lack of planning. If you don’t see a rock-solid foundation, help them create that or refer them to providers who offer that kind of service.
Listen: How to Determine the Best Timing for Your Services: Ask These Questions
Sometimes the value of your help depends on when the client needs it. To prevent scope creep and avoid future problems, help clients decide the best time for your services.
Now Read This:
- 3 Ways to Prevent Scope Creep on Projects
- Strategic Sounding Boards Give Real-World Advice for When the Rubber Meets the Road