10 Types of Merger Integration

John Spacey, updated on February 17, 2017

Post-merger integration is the process of combining and restructuring a business to realize value from a merger or acquisition. It is known to be an intensive and risk prone endeavor that is often underestimated. The following are common types of integration that occur after a merger or acquisition.

Strategy

Developing a strategy that leverages the competition position of both firms and optimizes costs.

Products

In some cases, products are integrated. For example, a robotics firm might acquire an artificial intelligence firm in order to integrate their software into products.

Structure

Combining organizational structures such as two IT departments.

Culture

Developing a common set of norms, expectations, habits and values. Differences in corporate culture can easily descend into counterproductive office politics.

Capabilities

Integrating business capabilities in order to reduce duplication of effort.

Processes

Integrating business processes or choosing one process over another. For example, establishing single processes in areas such as human resources and financial controls.

Policy & Procedure

A consistent set of rules and practices in areas such as human resources or customer service.

Systems

Integrating systems or reducing duplication of systems.

Data

Integrating data such as customer and product data.

Knowledge

Combining knowledge assets such as content management systems and key documents.

Overview: Merger Integration
Type	Integration
Definition	Combining and restructuring a business to realize value from a merger or acquisition.
Also Known As	Post-merger Integration
Related Concepts	Integration Organizational Culture Knowledge Organizational Structure Business Strategy Risk Management