Is Culture Fit Really that Important?

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In this article posted in HuffPost Business's Blog, they reference studies that indicate that 70 - 90% of mergers and acquisitions result in what is considered a failure. And of those, according to a McKinsey survey, 25% of executives say that the absence of a "culture fit" was the key reason why so many mergers fail. So the answer is yes.

Unfortunately, a company's culture may be the most overlooked and undervalued aspect of M&A due diligence and post-acquisition integration planning. Most executives are much more comfortable dealing with costs and synergies than culture, despite the potential for culture to enhance or destroy merger value. As defining and measuring the value of culture is a challenge, to say the least. However, with careful consideration a sound culture fit can be cultivated. Finding the right trusted advisers and partners is a critical element.