The role of contextual variables in successful post-merger integration: a review and future directions

Abstract

This paper attempts to investigate what actually influences a merger and acquisition (M&A) successful implementation and post-merger integration. Despite the significant research interest on this topic, there is much to explore in this area. The paper points to new areas of exploration in the existing domain of action research. Based on the existing body of knowledge, the present study explores the influence of a range of factors including organizational, individual, technological and environmental, with intent to investigate the gaps in the existing body of knowledge. It appears that human behavioural and organizational dynamics have been comparably lesser explored than the technological and strategic dimension in this area. However, looking into the future trends, this paper has come up with research objectives that can affect the interventions process and enhance combination success. Future directions for study and potential linkages with other variables have also been provided.

Keywords: Merger and acquisitions, merger syndrome, organizational change, post-merger integration