Feedback is essential to any communication or project, serving as a finetuner for the process. However, when feedback extends beyond the project scope, it is important for both parties involved to review the project’s scope and objectives. To avoid negative feedback, providing regular updates and ongoing feedback as the project progresses is crucial to achieving success. Lastly, the project manager, or anyone giving feedback, should ensure it is constructive and not hurtful. After all, feedback is meant to improve the project or inform future projects.

It’s really important to learn the art of setting clear boundaries with clients and itemizing (aka placing value on) services rendered. It’s important to establish terms like: Change order Up front. This gives you and clients a framework for discussion when inevitable changes come up or scope creep happens. Clients expect it. If you’re not creating the landscape for discussion for them you’ll find a lot of trouble and misunderstanding ahead.

To handle out-of-scope feedback, start by acknowledging and thanking stakeholders to show appreciation. Clearly explain how adding new ideas could affect the project’s scope, timeline, or budget, and suggest including their feedback in future phases if it doesn’t fit now. Document their input for future reference to show it’s not overlooked. Maintain open and clear communication, setting boundaries to keep the project focused. This approach respects their input while keeping the project on track.