Including IT Teams Early in M&A Talks Can Improve Chances of Success, CIOs Say
Becker's Hospital Review
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
Health systems navigating post-merger or acquisition IT integrations find success by embedding IT and digital leaders from the outset, establishing governance frameworks, and adopting structured, human-centered strategies that balance business objectives with cultural alignment. Leaders emphasize beginning integration efforts by engaging personnel—listening to their needs, honoring existing systems, and avoiding hasty “rip-and-replace” tactics—while aligning technical roadmaps with clinical and operational value. Successes hinge on early wins, clear stakeholder roles, and cross‑functional teams that build trust, maintain morale, and focus on shared goals. Financial prudence also plays a pivotal role: transitioning to more cost-effective systems has yielded savings of up to 90%, while maintaining staffing and leveraging IT to reinforce strategy rather than merely serve operations.