In the field of acquisitions and mergers due diligence is in reality an exercise in project management. The author argues that the buyer has to maintain focus in order to assess how a transaction will take place with the least money spent and the least fuss experienced by all parties.

How can you be sure you are buying the company you think you are? Are you sure it is as good as the seller says? How can you be certain unexpected costs and obligations will not suddenly appear once you are the owner and responsible for them? Have you worked out precisely what you are going to do with it once it is yours? How best can you arm yourself for the negotiations? The answer to all these questions, and many more, lies with effective due diligence. Due diligence is one of the most important but least well understood aspects of the acquisition process. This book is a comprehensive manual on getting due diligence right. It is a uniquely comprehensive guide, covering all aspects of the process from financial, legal and commercial due diligence right through to environmental and intellectual property due diligence. There are also useful chapters on working with advisers and project managing the work. It also includes a number of checklists to help ensure that the right questions are asked. Written in a clear and accessible style, with plenty of case studies and from a no-nonsense commercial perspective, this book provides expert guidance for executives, senior managers and anybody else contemplating or working on an acquisition.

'... a totally comprehensive manual and reference book explaining, in detail, the process of due diligence when contemplating the purchase of a company... Peter Howson has written an excellent and unique book.' Financial Advisor 'This book is an extraordinarily thorough and clear guide to every aspect of the Due Diligence process and will be invaluable to anyone who is involved.' Change Management Monitor Newsletter