The following 12-point M&A planning checklist can help integration planners at the senior management level see if they are on the right track:

1.  Are the plans consistent with the intrinsic logic of the deal?

2.  Does the planning process balance discipline with agility—with clear rules, but with built-in mechanisms for correcting course?

3.  Has the planning process involved both senior managers and employees most affected by the plans?

4.  Do the plans take into account the operational and cultural realities of the companies involved?

5.  Have senior managers and the board of directors reviewed and approved the plan documents?

6.  Are the plans supported by appropriate policies?

7.  Are the plans supported by adequate resources (including any needed training)?

8.  Do the plans specify measures and milestones of progress?

9.  Do the plans identify the individuals or groups accountable for fulfilling them?

10. Have the plans been communicated to all appropriate parties?

11. Is there a program for communicating the plans internally?

12. Is there a program for communicating the plans externally?

The answer to each question should be Yes!