Merging companies can be a time of unrest and confusion for all parties involved, but by using management of change software the transition to a new management system can be made smoother. When two companies come together, or one is absorbed into a pre-existing structure, there are a variety of components that must be taken in to consideration to ensure that all health and safety protocols are complied with, operational efficiency is maintained throughout the merger, and that any potential risks are managed and assessed. This is no simple feat, which is why the use of management of change software is imperative in order for companies to remain fully operational during this stressful time.
Cross-Border Compliance
Depending on the type of merger – national or international – regulatory compliance can be much more difficult to maintain. If it is on the national level but not within the same state or province, then federal health, safety, and environmental protocols must be adhered to. Typically, each company will already be compliant with the protocols within their region, but the two companies must then merge their compliance protocols and make sure that compliance is met in both regions, or even in both countries in which they are operational. Compliance software can assist with this process. It will determine if protocols align, and if all regulations have been followed. In addition, since all information regarding protocols will be uploaded and easily accessible, it will be prepared for any audits that may need to occur. This is particularly important as the merger progresses, as the company taking the primary managerial role will want to assess compliance for themselves, and perhaps even run their own audit outside of any possible governmental audits.
Maintaining Operational Efficiency During the Transition
As this is a time of flux, it is important to ensure that both companies are up and running at an optimal level. It is especially important that all workers understand any new workplace safety protocols that have been put in to place and why they must be followed. HSE management is extremely important as it encompasses the entire work environment, and this could potentially be a time where risk is higher for workers as policies and management changes. Confusion can lead to accidents. Management of change software brings all of the existing and incoming policies and protocols together, so that workers can also have access to the necessary information they need in order to understand the changing work environment. Ultimately, while transparent management is important, safety is the highest priority. Healthy workers keep a workplace running.
Management of Risk
As health and safety regulations change, or are adapted, new risks must be assessed constantly. When companies merge, they do it so that they can either have access to industries or resources that they believe will yield the biggest profits. However, with change comes increased risk. The company in charge of the merger must constantly assess for potential increased risks, and adapt their protocols so that the risk is mitigated or managed. Equipment must be monitored and assessed with quality control software, workers must be properly certified according to the regulations in their region, and areas with high incidence rates must be monitored for future risk management trends. Management of change software has the ability to transition all of this information from both parties together so that it can be adapted and amended to fit current management procedures. In conjunction with HSE software, it can also work to create further stats and protocols that ensure compliance on all levels. Consider taking some of the stress out of a merger and let software do some of the work for you!