Corresponding Author: Echeme Ibeawuchi, Department of Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State Nigeria.; Email- ibeecheme@yahoo.com, Tel. +2348032403835 European Journal of Academic Essays 2(2): 11-20, 2015 ISSN (online): 2183-1904 ISSN (print): 2183-3818 www.euroessays.org Development of Strategies for Effective Project Scope Management: A Study of National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP) Ubani, Emmanuel 1 , Echeme Ibeawuchi 2 , Ukwuoma,Benjamin 3 1 Department of Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri–Nigeria. E-mail:ibeecheme@yahoo.com 2 Department of Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri–Nigeria. E-mail:ibeecheme@yahoo.com 3 Lahmeyer International/OTIS Engineering: NIPP Design Consultants, Maitama Abuja Nigeria, Email: cofact@hotmail.com Abstract: Managing projects with little or no scope creep could be a strategy for competitive advantage in the realization of impressive business results. This study examines and analyses strategies for effective project scope management so as to provide avenue to prevent or minimize scope creep for achieving project objectives. Exploratory and descriptive survey methods were adopted in conducting the research using primary data obtained from the NIPP contracting firms through the instrument of questionnaire modeled in Likert 5 point scale. Computer-software of one-way Analysis of variance was used for statistical test of research hypothesis. The results of the analysis infer and establish the cases of adoption and institution, of technology competence in project design with emphasis on creation and analysis of work breakdown structure to the minute details, design review and verification of scope definition with scope checklist in synergy with robust scope communication plan as effective strategies for NIPP scope management. There are needs to devise mechanisms for evaluation of design effectiveness, verification of scope definition/work breakdown structure and seamless information and communication management system. Keywords: Project management, power projects, scope management, business competitiveness _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 1. Introduction In the management of projects, there is likely nothing more critical to the success of a project than to begin with an adequate definition of the scope of work and then to gain the acceptance of the definition by the customers. Project managers must define what they plan to do, and most important, must set the outer limits of what they are committed to do. Without a scope definition, “firewall” in place, projects will be in the unenviable position of constantly accepting additional work referred to as “scope creep” throughout the life of their existence. The only way to put finality to into a project is to define the scope of work, and then to avoid the inadvertent acceptance of minor refinement and this requires a result oriented strategy to accomplish the projects successfully. Today’s business challenges and fierce global competition requires new ways to improve competitiveness in business. And project management is at the top of the list. Power projects management are usually characterized by complex engineering design and scope definition with many