An increased scope of work refers to changes or additions to the project requirements, deliverables, or objectives. When the scope expands, it can impact various aspects of the project, including resource allocation, scheduling, and budget. Here’s how each option relates to project cost:
Increased scope of work: As mentioned, expanding the scope often requires additional resources, which directly affects project costs.
Unreliable time estimates: While unreliable time estimates can lead to delays, they may not directly impact costs unless the delays result in additional resource usage or penalties.
Supply delays: Supply delays can affect project schedules and potentially lead to increased costs if alternative resources or expedited shipping are required.
Change of due dates: Changes in due dates can impact resource allocation and scheduling, potentially affecting costs.
In summary, an increased scope of work is the most significant factor affecting project costs, as it directly influences resource utilization and project duration1.
References: 1: ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) Body of Knowledge (BoK), Project Management section. Retrieved from ASQ