When two Service Provider Companies come together in one, but they both have different procedures and processes, what are the best practices to consider?

When merging two service providers with different processes, here are the best practices I recommend based on real-life transformations I’ve led:

Map both processes clearly

Identify quick wins and non-negotiables

Involve frontline teams early

Design a shared, simplified operating model

Communicate relentlessly—transparency reduces resistance

A question to reflect on: How will you measure cultural alignment during this transition?

In my opinion, the first step is mapping these processes, procedures and structures to figure it out together with the teams involved if they can match, be merged or simply have something in common.

The second step is to look for impacts if a manager decide to use one or another. Working closer to the teams to get the best of each process and procedure usually puts them together to the main goal, which is, create a unique way of work without causing deep impacts.

Also, the decision of merging the processes or not might be made with the participation of the teams so that they can support you and  take part of the process. Usually, processes and procedures, as well as tools used in these processes, are not easy changed and many months of adaptation are needed.

A good way it might work is to create a group of leaders which are deeply involved in these processes and procedures and get together weekly to see oportunities of merging and optimizing these processes. A manager could take parte of it as a stakeholder and help them with tough decisions. Also, he or she could help them and support them and measure along the processes if those decisions are being effective or not.

Good luck!