Matrices completed by five work streams on M&A integrations. Includes instructions.
Instructions
Complete the columns of the communication matrix with the following information:
Type
What type of message is being conveyed?
· The type of announcement; the main subject of the message
Objective
Why is the message being conveyed?
· To announce the merger/acquisition
· To answer the “me” issues
· To communicate the financial impact of the merger/acquisition
· To provide reassurance and commitment to continued partnerships
Audience
Which stakeholders are you trying to reach?
· External - employees, customers, contractors, suppliers, distributors,
shareholders, community, trade groups, government, etc.
· Internal - executives, managers, leaders, rank and file employees, function
Core Messages
What does the message need to convey to internal audiences?
· Reasons behind the deal, agreement highlights
· Vision and strategy for the future of the combined company
· Any known changes in operations (e.g., plant closings, layoffs)
· Need for continued productivity
· Transition structure—Steering Committee, IMO, Functional Teams, etc.
· Integration planning progress and completion dates
· Deal price, impact to earnings
· Advantage of additional service offerings
· Continued commitment to clients
What does the message need to convey to externa l audiences?
· Deal price
· Reasons behind the deal—expected synergies, agreement highlights
· Any known changes in operations (e.g., plant closings, layoffs)
· Strategy going forward
· Customer impact
Vehicle
How will the message be delivered?
· Deliver the message through several channels:
- Meetings/Presentations
- Written Announcements
- Information Packets
- Press Releases
- Phone Calls
- Intranet
When
When and where will the message be delivered?
· Date, time
· On site, off site
Responsibility
Who is responsible for delivery of the message?
· Responsibility is divided appropriately between:
- Executives – announcement to key managers
- Key managers – announcement to staff
- Public Relations/Communications – announcement to media
- Chief Financial Officer – communication to analysts
- Relationship/Account Managers – communication to customers
To Do
What additional information should be added to the matrix?
· Comments or remaining tasks to complete communication