The PMBOK Guide -Fourth Edition offers a list of tools, techniques for use in managing stakeholder expectations. It includes three interpersonal skills: Resolving Conflict Overcoming resistance to change Building trust One thing that significantly helps to embrace change is to ensure that projects have a robust change management process To address the Highest Paid Person's Opinion (HIPPO) challenge, conduct a thorough stakeholder mapping, RACI exercise at the start of project A weekly status report provided to the stakeholders must include: Progress made this week Plans for next week Risks and issues Timeline update Budget update Be transparent about risks, issues caused by a stakeholder; define how they are impacting project

"Alignment turns conflict into collaboration." Handling conflicting stakeholder demands amidst scope creep requires structured communication and prioritization. Start by revisiting the original project scope and objectives, ensuring stakeholders understand the agreed-upon goals. In my experience, introducing a formal change request process helps evaluate the impact of new demands on timelines, resources, and deliverables. Facilitate a meeting to discuss conflicting requests openly, focusing on how they align with the project’s overall value. A common mistake is accommodating all demands; instead, prioritize changes based on business impact and gain consensus on what will best serve the project's success.

It's not easy to do, easy to say, but scope creep always strikes when you least expect it. I failed tons of times, but here’s how I try to approach it practically: ? ???????? ?????? ?????????? ??????????????: Write down exactly what’s included, and what’s not, and get everyone to sign off. ? ???????? ???????? ???????? ??????????????: When new requests come in, show the impact on time, budget, or quality—then let them choose. ? ?????? ?? ???????????? ??????: Track every request so no one can claim surprises later. ? ?????????? ???????????????????? ????????????: Short, focused check-ins keep everyone aligned and stop small changes from snowballing. IMHO, stakeholders are human too, let them believe in you to create a win-win.

Scope creep can quickly derail IT projects, especially when stakeholders have conflicting demands. To tackle this, we start by establishing clear boundaries at the project’s outset, ensuring everyone understands the scope. Using a prioritization matrix, we rank stakeholder demands based on their impact and feasibility, allowing us to focus on the most critical tasks. Regular communication is key—frequent updates keep stakeholders aligned and expectations managed. This structured approach has helped our team maintain project focus, on-time delivery, and within budget in over 85% of our recent projects.

This is a challenge frequently encountered in many IT projects. In my view, the critical step before selecting technology and partners is to establish a comprehensive expectations document, signed off by all stakeholders. The requirements document should be integral to the Scope of Work and the project agreement. Clearly defined guardrails, milestones, and MVPs, coupled with active involvement and sign-offs from stakeholders at each phase, are essential to ensuring inclusivity and project success.