Gold Plating vs Scope Creep
Parameters |
Gold Plating |
Scope Creep |
---|---|---|
Origin |
It arises from the project team’s ambition to go above and beyond or demonstrate excellence. |
It frequently results from outside variables like shifting stakeholder demands, shifting market dynamics, or hazy project boundaries. |
Impact |
Unnecessary additions may result in higher expenses, longer project schedules, and possible resource strain. |
It causes delays, financial overruns, and possible stakeholder disputes when the project scope expands beyond its initial parameters. |
Mitigation Strategies |
It reduces risk by encouraging a project management methodology that is value-driven. |
Robust techniques for scope management help to mitigate it. |
Management Approach |
Proactive management is required to define the scope clearly, communicate with stakeholders effectively, and detect and stop needless additions. |
To stop unchecked scope expansion, strict scope management techniques are needed. These include frequent scope reviews, change control protocols, and stakeholder involvement. |
What Is Gold Plating in Project Management?
Gold Plating in project management refers to the practice of adding extra features or enhancements to a project that are not necessary or requested by the client or stakeholders. It’s like adding a layer of gold to something when it’s not needed. This can happen when a team member goes beyond the original requirements or scope of the project, often with good intentions but without considering the impact on the project’s timeline, budget, or objectives. Gold plating can lead to unnecessary costs, delays, and complications, and it’s generally something project managers try to avoid to keep projects focused and efficient. Project teams can reduce the risk of gold plating and improve project outcomes by concentrating on providing value within the approved scope.
Table of Content
- What is Gold Plating in Project Management?
- Causes of Gold Plating
- Impacts of Gold Plating on Project Management
- How to Avoid Gold Plating?
- Best Practices for Preventing Gold Plating
- Examples of Gold Plating in Project Management
- Gold Plating vs Scope Creep
- Conclusion: Gold Plating in Project Management
- FAQs: Gold Plating in Project Management