Knowledge Transfer in the Post-Acquisition Phase: A Case Study

Ineffective integration is commonly given in the literature as one of the reasons mergers and acquisitions fail to meet expectations. Efficient knowledge transfer in the post-acquisition phase contributes significantly to the ultimate success of the acquisition. This is more pronounced when the geographical distance between the acquirer and the acquired company is great. Therefore, the research in the field of knowledge transfer is mostly undertaken in an international setting. This research uses a single case study approach to examine knowledge transfer in the post-acquisition phase in a technology multinational company which is a leading enterprise office solutions provider. Specifically, it focuses on barriers in the areas of knowledge sharing, culture, language, communication and technology in the Czech-Australian global virtual teams. Results from an in-depth interview and four questionnaires, both from respondents in the acquiring and acquired companies show the key challenges that the company encountered in each area. On the basis of the findings, the authors propose solutions for future acquisitions. The findings might be of considerable interest to medium-sized companies acquiring entities abroad, as well as benefiting future research into knowledge sharing in the post-acquisition phase in multinational enterprises.