IBM Merger & Acquisition Services

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Frequently asked questions

What does IBM Merger & Acquisition services offer?
In addition to significant expertise in helping leading organizations successfully complete M&A transactions, IBM offers M&A Accelerator, a web hosted, proprietary software solution that helps acquiring companies focus on achieving their synergy goals, accelerate deal execution, reduce the risk of making expensive mistakes, and provides boards, CEOs, and CFOs better visibility into acquisition performance. This solution helps streamline and accelerate the entire M&A process, from target tracking through integration processes and post-close measurement.

Is it really possible to turn the art of M&A into software?
IBM's M&A Accelerator combines technology and best practices to aid–not replace–the "art of the deal." We are able to provide a combination of technology and experienced M&A practitioners to apply solid operating principles required to make any transaction or integration successful. The application, which is also available as a commercial solution on its own, is highly configurable by business users, allowing every client to meet its specific business requirements.

How does the solution really work?
IBM's M&A Accelerator is a software solution that combines technology and best practices to enable enterprises to gain control of and visibility into the entire M&A process. It is designed to manage and accelerate the cross-functional virtual teams that are commonly the backbone of M&A execution. This on-demand solution includes a knowledge-based template and process that are designed to augment our client’s existing M&A practices.

For which industries does IBM support M&A?
The principles of successful acquisition performance transcend industry categories. As evidence of this, our clients include some of the world's most practiced acquirers across a wide range of industries.

How will the solution work from inside my corporate firewalls?
Seamlessly. Our clients include some of the most security-conscious enterprises in the world and our security and access protocols have been validated thoroughly by a number of our Fortune 500 clients.

How can I be sure that no one else outside of the deal team has access to the information?
We provide multiple security levels and controls within M&A Accelerator. First, we employ encrypted passwords and granular, role-based permission control structures in the solution. This ensures that users see only those elements of the deal they are authorized to see. Secondly, our technology infrastructure includes multiple authentication and access controls as well as continuous monitoring technology to ensure no unauthorized access. Finally, our world-class hosting center provides state-of-the-art physical and data security.

How can companies get the most value from M&A Accelerator?
Our clients have reported the most value and impact comes from using M&A Accelerator to manage their entire deal process, from initial target filtering through ongoing, post close measurement and deal-status reporting. The platform supports all of the collaboration, issue and risk management, project management, document management and most importantly, all reporting, required for any type of transaction.

Is the solution available all the time?
Our system is a secure, on-demand system available around-the-clock. One of the benefits our clients have seen is that M&A Accelerator can accelerate deal speed by providing a communication platform for all the different players in the transaction who are working in far flung global offices in very different time zones. Because our solution is delivered as a secure on-demand service, it is available anywhere in the world where a browser and adequate bandwidth are available.

Will I need to work with my IT department to set up the system?
No, not necessary. We have an expert team that surrounds the solution to ensure that each and every client can achieve the set up, training and roll out necessary to support their internal M&A teams, as well as any third parties that may be involved with their transactions.

Can I work with my outside partners, such as lawyers and investment banks?
Yes, our clients have found this solution invaluable for integrating the work of their transaction service providers and consultants into their overall deal and integration activities. The M&A Accelerator security architecture supports and controls access from external parties.

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Meet the experts

  • Martin Kay

    Martin Kay

    Partner & VP, Global Business Services

  • Jill Tutino

    Jill Tutino

    Global Sales Leader S&T Applications

M&A Accelerator. Creating Real Impact for YOUR Business.

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