Key performance indicators in upholding scope creep management in road projects

Abstract

Scope creep has been a day-to-day occurrence in almost every major road project causing a considerable cost overrun with no early dimple. This paper offers a critical appraisal on the dominant causes behind scope creep in the road projects. A comprehensive literature survey was undertaken to explore the factors specifically contributing scope creep and various control measures that are adopted, among other purposes, in at least reducing the impact due to scope creep in the final delivery of road projects. The study included interviews with 15 experts to identify major issues and add their hands-on experience. A questionnaire survey was subsequently administered among 100 industrial personnel having a cost management background in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the key performance indicators (KPIs) in terms of taming scope creep. Results from the study showed that concomitant client instructions on additional features, unclear scope and incremental changes cause scope creep throughout the project. Among 53 KPIs identified, the most effective KPI that enables adequate control of scope creep in road projects is the cost efficiency ratio. The results enable comprehending the causes of scope creep and its resultant net effect on cost control.