Abstract:

This article presents a tentative framework for describing and explaining enterprise systems (ES) integration in the context of corporate mergers & acquisitions (M&As) and tests it on the real world case of Trelleborg Industrial Hose. It is argued that empirical data exists mostly in anecdotal form and theoretical contributions only treats fragmented pieces of the managerial scope. Therefore, the framework synthesizes both content- and process-oriented theories that have been suggested essential to describe and explain ES integration work in M&As and its relation to the final outcome. Using the framework comparative studies can be made and cumulative knowledge can be developed. The framework can also be used by companies in their M&A processes. The application of the framework on the Trelleborg Industrial Hose (TIH) case shows that the framework is a good starting point to produce a comprehensive managerial view of ES integration in M&A.