RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Outsource a Core Competency? JF The Journal of Private Equity FD Institutional Investor Journals SP 72 OP 75 DO 10.3905/jpe.2003.320065 VO 7 IS 1 A1 Christopher Lisle YR 2003 UL https://pm-research.com/content/7/1/72.abstract AB The M&A world has learned the importance of conducting in-depth legal and financial due diligence, yet many acquisitions still fail to live up to expectations. The most common reasons actually relate to flaws in the business strategy of the acquired company rather than tangible shortcomings that the accountants and lawyers can identify. Broadening the scope of due diligence has turned out to be the answer for many private equity investors. A structured process of evaluating the business strategy of the target company improves the chances of any acquisition's success. Outsourcing is often required to diligently analyze the positioning of the target company relative to market dynamics, competitors’ strategies, management capabilities, customer needs, and brand perceptions.