<b>Scope-Creep Defense SOP: The 'That's New Scope' Script</b>

<b>Scope-Creep Defense SOP: The 'That's New Scope' Script</b>

Scope creep isn't a client problem, it's a missing process. Use this fixed response system so adds get billed, not absorbed.

<b>Step 1.</b> Define the deliverable count in the contract, in numbers: "3 videos, 2 ratios each, 2 revision rounds."
<b>Step 2.</b> When a new ask lands, name it out loud with the template:
<code>Happy to do that — it's outside our 3-video scope, so I'll add it as a line item at [rate]. Approve and I'll start.</code>
<b>Step 3.</b> Log every add in a running change list.
<b>Step 4.</b> Bill adds on the final invoice as itemized extras.

The script keeps it warm and firm — never apologetic. Standardize it so saying "that's new scope" is routine, not awkward. Save it. Rinse and repeat.