Design Combination Potential and Get it Done: An Analysis of the Drivers of Technological Performance in Mergers and Acquisitions

The paper explores the impact of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) on technological performance. We posit that the post-acquisition technological performance is positively related to the technological combination potential of the merging firms and to their ability to realize this potential. In turn, the combination potential depends on M&As motives aimed at complementing firms’ technological resources, whereas firms’ ability to realize their potential is significantly influenced by their prior experience in M&As and technology integration