Mergers & Acquisitions Integration Handbook, 2nd Edition

CHAPTER 16Creating an Integration Playbook

In this chapter you will learn:

• The definition and key elements of a comprehensive integration playbook
• Phasing and construction examples
• Playbook application and administration tips
• Playbook process documentation examples

An integration playbook is designed for organizations that want to build internal M&A planning and execution capabilities to handle ongoing acquisition activity, by leveraging a comprehensive and cost-effective turnkey integration solution that covers the planning and execution process for integrating newly acquired add-on companies.

I’m amazed when I talk to companies that have frequent integration activities but have no standardized approach. It’s literally a reinvention of the wheel exercise each time there’s a need for integration activity. Integration work is hard enough as it is, so developing a playbook will help your company adopt some standardized and repeatable processes and tools it can leverage for future integration activities.

However, too often when people refer to a “playbook,” they are simply thinking of tools or checklists to guide integration efforts.

A comprehensive playbook solution should include the following:

• Framework: The playbook process should be able to address all people, process, and technology planning and execution requirements from pre-close thru Day 120.
• Technology: The playbook typically utilizes a combination of a collaboration platform, a project management tool, and dozens ...