During the Due Diligence Phase, it is important to gain an understanding of the current IT environment, especially the overall health and readiness to support the business post transition.  This is especially critical when shared systems that support multiple entities are involved.  In addition, services agreements for IT services post deal must be negotiated and an assessment of the implications of IT on the financial model of the business must be established.  In prior projects, we have been able to establish very favorable service agreements that substantially lowered costs post transition.

Clients appreciate CCI experience and our ability to work quickly during this phase in order to deliver the detailed assessment needed for valuation assessment and go-forward capital planning.  Assessment and planning, prior to the deal being completed, is a key factor in positioning for an effective IT transition.  Time required and costs of the transition can best be controlled (and potentially reduced) through up front planning while maintaining the confidentiality required during this critical phase. 

Once the deal has been completed, detailed project planning is conducted based on optimizing service and cost considerations.  A roadmap is established which outlines the detailed stages of the transition and detailed financial budgets are established for the transition project.  Again, our project experience uniquely qualifies CCI to save time and money as a result of the planning process.

Finally, the transition implementation activities are completed.  It is critical to manage communications during transition activities with various entities including associates and 3rd parties.  During previous projects, CCI has managed the project activities & resources, financial budget and timelines to optimize service, control costs, and position the IT team to effectively support the business.

In many cases, CCI has provided support during the due diligence phase of the project and then been retained to implement the plan during post transition.

"Columbus Consulting played an instrumental role in assessing the information technology capabilities in connection with our acquisition of New York & Company from its corporate parent and then developing and implementing a comprehensive plan for stand-alone information technology capabilities."

Bo Arlander, Partner, Bear Stearns Merchant Banking