Antoine Roex, OAKland Group
When a company merges with or acquires another, the question of data system integration quickly becomes central. Data governance then plays a key role in ensuring the consistency, quality, security, and compliance of shared information. This article explores in depth the challenges associated with integrating data systems during mergers and acquisitions, highlighting best practices, common pitfalls to avoid, and the tools that enable effective governance throughout the entire process.
Challenges of data system integration during mergers and acquisitions
One of the first obstacles encountered after a merger or acquisition lies in the disparity between the information systems used by the entities involved. These technological environments are often very different: ageing infrastructures, proprietary tools, incompatible database structures… Harmonisation then becomes a real technical and organisational headache. These differences hinder data unification and can even render certain information unusable in the short term. Moreover, the pressure of post-transaction deadlines sometimes pushes teams to rush integration, thus creating errors that are difficult to rectify. It becomes essential to identify potential friction points even before the deal is finalised in order to anticipate a coherent strategy. Lack of visibility on source data quality, duplication of information, and loss of historical data can also hamper value creation.
The importance of data governance in the integration process
Data governance is not limited to a control role; it structures the entire integration process. By defining clear rules for quality, access, confidentiality, and data management, it provides a solid foundation to prevent critical errors. During a merger or acquisition, data becomes a strategic asset. But its value is real only if it is reliable, structured, and usable. Without clear governance, duplicates and contradictory information proliferate, damaging interdepartmental consistency. It is also crucial to involve business leaders to align management rules with operational realities. This allows for better adoption of tools, as well as tighter control of sensitive data, especially in sectors subject to strict regulations. Robust governance therefore facilitates fast and informed decision-making in a context where every mistake can be costly.
Strategies for successful data system integration
Successful integration of data systems involves combining powerful technological tools with rigorous methodology. The use of advanced ETL (extract, transform, load) tools or cloud integration platforms enables smooth synchronisation between heterogeneous systems. These technologies offer features such as duplicate detection, automated field mapping, and data conflict management. But technology alone is not enough. It is also necessary to plan gradual migration steps, implement regular validation tests, and train teams in these new environments. In parallel, change management must be actively led to avoid internal resistance. By involving stakeholders from the outset of the project, it is possible to anticipate business needs and limit the risk of functional inconsistencies. Data-driven management then becomes a strategic lever for post-merger performance.
Risk management and data security during mergers and acquisitions
The integration of data from multiple systems increases security and compliance risks, especially when dealing with personal, financial, or confidential data. During a merger or acquisition, the attack surface for cyber threats expands, as there are more connection points between systems—often poorly managed. It is therefore crucial to thoroughly assess existing vulnerabilities before any migration and to deploy encryption mechanisms, strong authentication, and access controls. Particular attention must also be paid to local and international regulations, such as GDPR or CCPA. In case of non-compliance, penalties can be severe and damage the reputation of the merged entities. Compliance audits, user rights reviews, enhanced backup policies… These are just a few measures that must be planned from the earliest stages of the project. Security becomes a cornerstone of any successful data governance strategy.
Conclusion
Data integration during mergers and acquisitions is much more than a technical issue: it determines the overall success of the operation. A clear governance strategy, combined with effective tools and proactive risk management, helps maximise the value of the transaction while securing all information flows. Companies that anticipate data-related challenges possess a strong competitive advantage in achieving successful transformation. By mastering every stage of the information life cycle, they lay the foundations for a more agile, transparent, and efficient organisation.
References :