How do you control scope creep in UX design?

1 Define the scope clearly

The first step to control scope creep is to define the scope of the project clearly and document it in a contract or a statement of work. This document should outline the project's goals, objectives, deliverables, timeline, budget, roles and responsibilities, and success criteria. It should also specify the scope of the user research, the number and type of user personas, the wireframes, the prototypes, the usability testing, and the iterations. Having a clear scope document can help you and the client agree on what is in and out of scope, and avoid misunderstandings or assumptions later on.

2 Communicate regularly

The second step to control scope creep is to communicate regularly with the client and the stakeholders throughout the project. Communication is key to establish trust, expectations, and feedback. You should communicate the progress of the project, the results of the research and testing, the changes or issues that arise, and the impact of any scope changes on the timeline, budget, or quality. You should also use tools and methods that facilitate communication and collaboration, such as project management software, online platforms, video calls, or presentations. By communicating regularly, you can keep the client and the stakeholders informed and involved, and prevent scope creep from happening unnoticed or uncontrolled.

3 Manage change requests

The third step to control scope creep is to manage change requests effectively. Change requests are inevitable in any project, especially in UX design, where user feedback and testing can reveal new insights or problems. However, not all change requests are necessary or beneficial for the project. You should evaluate each change request carefully and consider its impact on the scope, the timeline, the budget, and the quality of the project. You should also consult with the client and the stakeholders and explain the pros and cons of each change request. If a change request is approved, you should document it and update the scope document accordingly. By managing change requests, you can avoid unnecessary or excessive changes that can derail the project.

5 Be flexible and agile

The fifth step to control scope creep is to be flexible and agile in your UX design process. Flexibility and agility mean that you can adapt to changes and uncertainties, and deliver incremental and iterative results. You should use a UX design process that allows you to plan, research, design, test, and iterate in short and frequent cycles, such as the Design Sprint or the Lean UX. You should also use tools and techniques that enable you to create and validate low-fidelity prototypes quickly and easily, such as sketches, paper prototypes, or online tools. By being flexible and agile, you can reduce the risk of scope creep and deliver a better product that meets the user's and the client's needs.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?