This is one of a new series of Q&A based business assessment guidebooks from Bold World Books. It uses a question and answer format to evaluate the suitability of a potential acquisition target as well as the acquirer's own readiness to proceed. The guide's questions look beyond conventional due diligence to build an in-depth evaluation of a potential target. Together, the answers to these questions form a valuable decision-making guide when thinking about acquiring or merging with another company.

The book is organized as a series of checklist questionaires that evaluate in turn: a short-list of potential targets, an in-depth evaluation of a chosen target, the acquirer's own readiness to proceed and the post-aquisition efforts that will be required. Together, its 700 questions look at specific aspects throughout the life of the M&A process; offering insights about the organization being assessed, identifying those areas that "need a closer look," qualifying the benefits and disadvantages of the 'deal' and gauging post-acquisition progress.

Lawrence Hobbs, the editor of Bold World Books' new "What You Need To Ask" series of business books, is himself an author and management consultant. His book 'Strategic DNA - Bringing Business Strategies to Life' was published by Agate B2 in 2008. A broadly experienced generalist with 30 years of international experience, his efforts have helped public, private and non-profit sector businesses realize many distinguished visions. Lawrence has led Chinook Solutions since founding the company in 1999 and is also active as a facilitator, executive coach and public speaker.

Lawrence Hobbs' profile page