Scope creep tends to be a problem on all projects, but particularly megaprojects. Review the reasons for scope creep on the Big Dig and discuss how these problems might have been prevented with better planning and project structure.

Scope Creep

Scope creep is the tendency of the requirements to grow over time, and, as the literature reflects, it is a common affliction on all projects but particularly on large and complex projects that often require rework. A scope statement that is broad and imprecise is an invitation for scope creep. Most of the time, scope creep results in cost overruns and delays. A clear specification statement enables the project team to immediately realize when extra work is added and is a beneficial tool for controlling scope creep. However, a clear specification does not always work if the project manager ignores the process, or if specific requirements or stakeholders’ concerns are not solicited or addressed at the conceptual or early stage of the project to help properly define such specification. Scope creep on the Big Dig resulted primarily from the first two considerations in Table 5.4: (1) historic preservation requirements and (2) community concerns about the original design of the Charles River Crossing.

Table 5.4 Design Development Historic Preservation Requirements Community Concerns Right-of-Way Acquisition and Valuation Problems Geotechnical and Unknown Subsurface Conditions Bridge Foundations Considerations, The Central Artery/Tunnel Project Shifting of tunnels under the Fort Point Channel in response to historic preservation rules Change in concept and design of the Charles River Crossing (Scheme Z) Property owner relocation, sudden growth, and area development, cost, and schedule impacts. Inadequate geotechnical investigations during the conceptual and alignment selection phases cause unforeseen conditions during excavation and construction of tunnels, bridges, and walls. This could be compounded by inadequate characterization of groundwater conditions and the uncertainty of the location of utilities The foundation type for bridges in the project may need to be adapted to new information that becomes available as the project progresses.