System integration after mergers and acquisitions : aspects, criteria and methods for keep- versus change-decisions

Abstract

This thesis demonstrates the application of tools for decision making on Keep vs. Change decisions for IT systems after mergers and acquisitions (M&A's). It summarizes aspects and criteria and methods for finding sound decisions. The special circumstances in case of a post-merger scenario bring in additional aspects, compared with same decisions under normal business conditions. The thesis proposes scaling methods to valuate these special aspects for the integration in the decision making process. The pROCI method is developed, which provides keep versus change decision support for Integration Managers based on financial measures. The sources of information are literature and internet searches, as well as practical experience of the author from his previous employments. Additional input was collected from other persons, who were involved in mergers & acquisitions. The results of the thesis are various proposals and recommendations for IT planners. It is, however, not intended to be a cook-book recipe, because every M&A case differs from another.<br />