How to Be Successful in a Post-Merger Integration

Success in Integrating Functional Departments

In addition to utilizing Stonewater Partners 6-Step Functional PMI Framework, it is important to keep the following critical success factors top of mind throughout the project, as they apply universally to any PMI effort:

Discipline and process are of paramount importance:

• Create an integration roadmap and more detailed 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year plans
• Form and operate an Integration Management Team and integration sub-teams focused on the PMI roadmap and specific assignments
• Utilize common formats for outputs, clear timelines, coordinated meeting schedules, standardized communication mechanisms, and recurring review processes
• Expedite and pace integration activities, push for decisions and actions, and monitor progress against goals

Cultural and change-management undercurrents should not be ignored:

• PMI is going to add to everyone’s daily job, so balance integration activities with everyday business needs
• Monitor for signs of unease throughout the organization and ensure concerns can be openly voiced and are fairly and actively addressed, even when the outcomes are unwelcome
• Invest effort in forging good relationships – do not sacrifice relationships for progress
• Communicate and engage people actively as PMI will require cooperation from many people at all levels of the organization

The Stonewater Partners 6-Step Functional PMI Framework is a powerful tool for creating clarity and discipline during the PMI process, which in turn dramatically increases the probability of executing a smooth and successful PMI. By partnering with Stonewater Partners and following this detailed 6-step recipe for success, companies can significantly reduce the risks of delay or derailment of their PMI efforts and ensure the successful realization of the cost synergies and revenue growth envisioned by the M&A deal in a timely manner and with minimal disruption to existing day-to-day business activities.

Interested in learning more? Find our insights on process standardization here.