A gap analysis is the process of comparing the current state and the desired state of an organization or a system, and identifying the gaps or differences between them1. A gap analysis can help to determine the actions and resources needed to bridge the gaps and achieve the desired outcomes2. In the context of an IT infrastructure integration after a major acquisition, a gap analysis can help to:
Assess the compatibility and interoperability of the IT systems, applications, data, and processes of both companies3 Identify the gaps, risks, issues, and opportunities related to the IT infrastructure integration4 Prioritize and plan the IT infrastructure integration activities and projects5 Align the IT infrastructure integration with the business goals and objectives of the acquisition Therefore, conducting a gap analysis should be done NEXT after deciding that both companies will be using the parent company's IT infrastructure.
The other options are not as important as option C. While it is important to update the enterprise architecture (EA), perform a business impact analysis (BIA), and develop a communication plan to support the merger, these are subsequent steps that can be done after conducting a gap analysis. A gap analysis can provide valuable inputs and insights for these steps, such as the current and target EA, the potential impacts of the IT infrastructure integration on the business operations and stakeholders, and the communication needs and channels for the IT infrastructure integration. References := What is Gap Analysis? Definition, Methodology & Examples | ASQ1 Gap Analysis: How to Bridge the Gap Between Performance and ...2 How to Make a Successful IT Integration Strategy for Mergers and ...4 M&A: The Six Phases of IT Integration - Interlink Cloud Blog3 Post-Merger Integration: M&A Integration Process Guide - DealRoom5 Success Factors for Integrating IT Systems After a Merger | CIO