Post-Merger Integration: The 5 Most Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Post-Merger Integration Mistakes

1. Little or No Pre-Close Planning:
   When planning does not start before close, an integration starts more slowly and takes longer.
    
2. Unclear Integration Strategy:
   Acquirers should define a clear integration strategy early and before their teams begin to develop plans.
    
3. Poor Prioritization:
   Without effective prioritization, high-payback activities receive too little attention.
    
4. Slow Organizational Planning:
   Slow decision making on organizational design leaves employees in limbo and damages productivity and morale.
    
5. Inadequate Communication Planning:
   Communication is usually the worst managed aspect of integrations. People are often left out of the loop or receive mixed messages.