After the Acquisition: Managing Paranoid People in Schizophrenic Organizations

Abstract

OVERVIEW:The integration of technology organizations is a key element in the success of mergers and acquisitions. Research managers benefit significantly by an awareness of the unique set of people and organizational management skills that impact the integration process. R&D leadership provides significant value to the process if it becomes involved early in the planning process and remains involved through due diligence and post-closing integration of the combined organizations. Successful managers devote special attention to developing a common vision of the new organization, conducting technical due diligence, retaining the R&D infrastructure, managing employees through change, integrating intellectual asset portfolios, and integrating disparate R&D cultures.