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Improving Acquisition Outcomes with Contextual Ambidexterity
Author(s) -
Meglio Olimpia,
King David R.,
Risberg Annette
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
human resource management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.888
H-Index - 94
eISSN - 1099-050X
pISSN - 0090-4848
DOI - 10.1002/hrm.21721
Subject(s) - ambidexterity , task (project management) , knowledge management , mergers and acquisitions , process management , business , dreyfus model of skill acquisition , computer science , management , economics , finance , economic growth
The results of research on mergers and acquisitions often point to a need to improve acquisition outcomes and lessen the organizational turmoil that can often follow integration efforts. We assert that viewing acquisition integration through the lens of contextual ambidexterity may improve acquisition outcomes in two ways: by providing an integrated solution to the economic and social tensions in acquisitions, and by enabling managers to effectively confront the competing needs of task and human integration. We also posit that by building on contextual ambidexterity, we can extend the possibilities for both research and practice regarding task and human integration in acquisitions. We also emphasize the role of an integration manager and integration mechanisms in enabling contextual ambidexterity for successful acquisition integration. Finally, we identify implications for research and practice. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.