Late to the Game: Assessing IT Integration Risk after the Acquisition Target Has Been Identified

This article introduces a framework for assessing IT integration risk in acquisitions. We illustrate the framework´s merits for the management of high-risk acquisitions and identification of low-risk acquisitions with the experience of Trelleborg AB, a global industrial company with acquisitions as integrated components of its corporate strategy. Based on the insights gained from Trelleborg, we provide lessons for CIOs in assessing and managing IT-related risk in acquisitions after the acquisition target has been identified.