The IT Checklist for Mergers & Acquisitions: What Needs to Happen Before, During & After
By MBH IT PRO | IT Strategy & Solutions
When two companies become one, the technical side can get messy—fast.
Overlapping systems, unsecure networks, lost data, and delayed operations are just a few of the IT disasters that can happen during a merger or acquisition.
That’s why your IT team needs a clear, detailed plan before the deal is signed. This is your **definitive IT checklist** for every phase of the M&A process—before, during, and after.
Phase 1: Pre-Merger — Technical Due Diligence
Before contracts are finalized, IT should evaluate the infrastructure, risk posture, and tech debt of the target company.
✅ Checklist:
- Audit all systems, applications, and hardware
- Assess cybersecurity maturity and vulnerabilities
- Review licensing agreements and service contracts
- Evaluate cloud infrastructure and data centers
- Check compliance (HIPAA, GDPR, SOC 2, etc.)
- Identify systems overlap and integration risks
🎯 MBH IT PRO offers full M&A IT assessments for peace of mind before you sign.
Phase 2: Day 0 — Integration Planning
Once the deal is greenlit, IT should shift into project planning mode. Every system, user, and process needs to be mapped for migration.
✅ Checklist:
- Create an integration roadmap with clear milestones
- Identify critical systems for business continuity
- Design the future-state architecture (cloud, hybrid, on-prem)
- Establish a data migration strategy and timeline
- Prepare communication plans and training for staff
- Set up internal ticketing and change control workflows
Phase 3: Execution — Migration & Support
This is where planning meets reality. As systems are merged and moved, IT must ensure operations stay running and secure.
✅ Checklist:
- Deploy VPNs, firewalls, and endpoint security tools
- Consolidate Active Directory and user access controls
- Migrate mailboxes, files, and databases in phases
- Provide helpdesk coverage for end-user support
- Monitor system uptime, performance, and incident response
Phase 4: Post-Merger — Optimization & Scaling
The final phase is about tuning, training, and planning for growth. Now that systems are integrated, it’s time to optimize.
✅ Checklist:
- Consolidate vendors and renegotiate contracts
- Remove redundant systems and streamline licenses
- Train staff on new tools, workflows, and security policies
- Set up business continuity plans and offsite backups
- Track KPIs for IT cost savings and ROI
Need Help With IT During a Merger or Acquisition?
MBH IT PRO has helped companies navigate the technical side of M&A with zero downtime and complete confidence.
📞 Book a strategic IT M&A consultation now or call 949-478-4288.