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In mergers and acquisitions, due diligence forms the base upon which
virtually all key decisions — both strategic and operational — are made.
Those involved in such transactions understand the importance of due
diligence in identifying potential "deal breakers" and any items that may
have a material impact on the negotiations or price.
However, once this has been accomplished, it is not uncommon for
due diligence activity and intensity to wane. This cuts short a process that
could be beneficial in other ways and leaves much important information
on the table — especially information that could influence integration
decisions and pave the way for a smooth integration process.
HR Involvement
Critical to M&A Success
41 WorldatWork Journal second quarter 2005
Robert A. Bundy
Mercer Human Resource Consulting
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Reprinted from WorldatWork Journal, second quarter 2005,
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This is of particular relevance to HR professionals
because they bear a significant responsibility for
integration. Ultimately, they have responsibility for
a host of "people" issues ranging from the integration
of benefits and compensation programs to workforce
restructurings, labor contracts/agreements and their
administration and the management of issues, such
as leadership, organizational culture and employment
practices. And yet they usually are not given access to
vital information...