Streamlined Studio Integration: A Framework for Acquisition Success

Our Technical Program Management (TPM) services enabled a global leader in mobile gaming, to effectively integrate a newly acquired studio into their IT ecosystem. Over six months, we developed and implemented a robust integration framework encompassing transaction, HR, and IT activities. This framework ensured a successful transition and became their playbook for future acquisitions. The project was completed on time and set a benchmark for excellence in acquisition integration.

CATEGORY: Technical Program Management

September 2022

A global organization recognized for creating immersive mobile gaming experiences. They consistently delivers high-quality games and has a strong reputation for innovation and growth in the mobile gaming industry. As a growth-focused organization, they frequently engages in acquisitions to expand its portfolio and strengthen its capabilities. Their latest acquisition presented an opportunity to refine their integration processes while maintaining operational excellence.

Problem and Goals:

Integrating the newly acquired studio posed several challenges, including aligning IT systems, onboarding employees, and ensuring operational continuity. Without a structured approach, the process risked delays, inefficiencies, and potential disruptions. The key goals were:

• Develop a streamlined integration strategy guided by best practices.

• Ensure minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

• Facilitate rapid onboarding of the acquired studio's employees and systems.

• Establish a repeatable framework for future acquisitions.

Solution:

To address these challenges, we provided end-to-end technical program management services. Our approach centred on better program management principles:

• Framework Development: We designed a comprehensive integration framework encompassing three key areas:

  • Transaction Activities: Ensuring smooth transfer of assets and aligning contractual obligations.

  • HR Activities: Facilitating onboarding, aligning employee benefits, and addressing cultural integration.

  • IT Activities: Migrating systems, integrating tools, and establishing unified communication platforms.

• Detailed Project Planning: We developed a meticulous project plan outlining all tasks, timelines, and dependencies to guide the integration process.

• Execution and Monitoring: Leveraging our expertise in technical program management, we ensured that the integration progressed as per the plan, mitigating risks and addressing issues proactively.

• Knowledge Transfer: We documented the integration process, creating a reusable playbook for their future acquisitions.

• Execution Excellence: Applied disciplined program management practices to monitor progress, resolve roadblocks, and meet deadlines. Leveraged our expertise to adapt to evolving requirements without compromising timelines or quality.

Result:

The integration was successfully completed within the agreed-upon six-month timeframe. Key achievements included:

• Smooth Transition: The acquired studio's IT systems and processes were seamlessly integrated into their ecosystem.

• Employee Onboarding: All employees from the acquired studio were onboarded efficiently, with minimal disruption.

• Operational Continuity: The transition did not impact ongoing business operations or game development timelines.

• Reusable Framework: they now has a robust playbook for managing future acquisition integrations, saving time and effort.

• Risk Mitigation: Proactive management ensured a smooth transition with no significant setbacks

Conclusion:

This project underscored the critical role of Technical Program Management in navigating complex integration scenarios. Our framework ensured that they could realize the benefits of their acquisition quickly and efficiently. The client is well-positioned for continued growth through future acquisitions by turning this project into a repeatable playbook.