M&A IT Check List

I can't seem to find my old Excel spreadsheets, but I can give you a few things to consider.

Before you do your IT "Due Dilligence", make sure you have support from the business for what you believe to be critical aspects of a successful Merger or Acquisition. I'm sure you know that you need to review the PC environment and collect software versions, h/w capability and software licenses, but even more important is getting your management to agree in advance of any M&A to your guidelines for integration of any other technologies. Following the PC line of Due Dilligence, have you considered what the lowest end PC is that you would accept, or the type of PC you would accept (I.e., nothing less than a 500 Mhz P2 and must be an HP system). Getting this type of issue resolved up front, will save you from some real headaches later. Also, be prepared for the possibility that the company being acquired might be doing some things better than you are and that you should take advantage of the opportunity to improve the overall environment. Lastly, make sure there's general agreement on a timeframe for integration of clients, email, ERP systems etc.

I hope everything goes well.