Large corporations expand and diversify their operations through strategic mergers and acquisitions, and due diligence is a significant component of the M&A journey. These transactions are usually very high-stakes and time-sensitive, with specific insights from expert surveys playing a pivotal role in boosting the decision-making process.
Reach Out for Invaluable Insights with Expert Surveys
Unfortunately, it isn't always possible to immediately source an expert with the specific industry knowledge and experience that a business transaction of this complexity calls for.
Investors are looking beyond expert network firms that rely on closed expert pools. They need B2B expert surveys at scale that yield insights and collect data points compiled from multiple expert consultations cross-referenced with relevant statistical data.
By using multi-dimensional targeted and personalized expert surveys, investors can acquire the specific information they need.
The Traditional Approach: Closed Expert Groups and Incomplete Datasets
Traditionally, expert network firms rely on a limited pool of vetted subject matter experts (SMEs) who are part of their closed network. It's not always possible to match an investor with the ideal expert within these constraints, especially with limited time.
Additionally, conducting expert calls and undertaking expert surveys with small sample sizes can lead to incomplete research and inadequate datasets, delaying the decision-making process.
The New Normal: Custom-recruited Experts, Surveyed at Scale
Investors seek strategic advice from rigorously custom-vetted experts with highly specific industry knowledge backed by years of experience in the field, a strong network of connections, and extensive market knowledge. The valuation of a business is subject to variation depending on its industry, target market, and growth path, as each business is distinct in its own way.
The right subject matter expert would be equipped to provide clients with valuable insights when investigating a possible business opportunity or acquisition. However, finding an expert that matches the exact criteria can be challenging.
Rather than relying on dated methods, skilled expert network firms use automation to speed up the expert surveying and sourcing process. Going beyond conventional closed expert networks, professional expert network firms take an open-access approach to sourcing and recruiting subject matter experts.
A competent expert network firm is not confined to a limited expert pool. They can cast a wider net, conduct large-scale expert surveys quickly and efficiently, and then follow up with selected experts to narrow the search.
Today's expert survey solutions incorporate automated processes to track down and recruit the perfect experts for any investor's private equity due diligence needs, even on stringent timelines.
At Knowledge Ridge, we provide targeted or customized due diligence surveys in which an expert panel provides tailor-made responses to key questions. Our extensive online panel community includes niche market experts with direct experience from varied industries, sectors, and consumer demographics across 40+ countries. In addition to planning, we assist with questionnaire design, panel selection, effort and cost tracking, performance monitoring, and project closure.
Ready to elevate your decision-making with expert insights?
Reliable Expert Consultations for Enhanced Due Diligence
High-stakes negotiations come with several risks and major decisions hinging on expert advice and insights. This is why investors and venture capitalists rely on sound third-party due diligence to accurately appraise a brand or organization they're interested in acquiring. However, time constraints and the volatile nature of such negotiations can expose a few downsides to the due diligence process.
While halting negotiations to engage in due diligence can help an organization assess the target company, provide transparency for both parties and ensure a cultural fit between the businesses, there are a few shortcomings. These include the expenses involved and the target company needing to divert operational resources to respond to questions and requests for documentation.
Additionally, the company being acquired cannot solicit better or more competitive offers during the agreed-upon exclusivity period, which can be highly disadvantageous if the deal falls through during a protracted due diligence process.
Relying on a competent expert network firm to survey and source industry experts can mitigate the disadvantages and risks that come with private equity due diligence.
An accomplished expert network firm with a robust compliance framework increases the likelihood of quickly locating the right experts for the task, giving investors accurate insights to make informed decisions and close transactions on time.
Why Should You Choose Knowledge Ridge's Custom Expert Surveys?
With extensive experience and access to a global network of experts, Knowledge Ridge offers targeted and custom B2B expert surveys to ensure that clients receive the precise knowledge they are looking for in the shortest time frame.
Rather than being constrained within a limited pool of experts, Knowledge Ridge employs intelligent approaches designed to index specialized B2B knowledge and zero in on the ideal experts from millions of candidates worldwide.
This custom recruitment model makes it possible to swiftly source subject matter experts that perfectly match the client's knowledge requirements, thus speeding up the commercial due diligence process with precise and relevant insights and accurate business performance projections.
USPs Knowledge Ridge's custom expert surveys:
- Precision: Tailored to your specific needs.
- Speed: Rapid turnaround for timely decisions.
- Accuracy: Reliable data from industry specialists.
- Confidence: Make informed choices with comprehensive insights.
- Efficiency: Streamline your due diligence process for faster results.
Get in touch for on-demand expertise from seasoned industry professionals to test new ideas, accelerate business strategy optimizations or make informed business decisions with quality-driven customized insights. Know more about our core and value-added services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do investors use expert networks for due diligence work?
Expert networks connect investors with professionals in various industries, including academics, executives, consultants, and researchers, who can provide targeted insights and help them make informed investment decisions. Before connecting subject matter experts with investors, expert network firms conduct extensive searches to locate, identify, and custom vet the most pertinent industry expert for the job.
What exactly is due diligence?
Due diligence is an investigation or assessment of a business opportunity, usually conducted by investors, venture capitalists, or private equity firms, to gauge the feasibility of a planned acquisition or merger. It involves gathering and reviewing relevant information about a particular subject matter to help inform decision-making and to mitigate risks. The due diligence process is critical to identifying potential issues or risks that may impact the success of an investment or decision.
What are the most important aspects of due diligence?
The most crucial components of due diligence are financial scrutiny, legal compliance, operational evaluation, and risk assessment. It depends on the specific context and purpose of the investigation.
Other aspects that may be important include management and leadership, technology and innovation, customer and supplier relationships, and intellectual property. The level of due diligence required will depend on the specific context and purpose of the investigation and may vary depending on the size and complexity of the transaction or decision.
Expert network firms play a pivotal role in the due diligence process by connecting clients with industry experts who provide deep insights into these areas. At Knowledge Ridge, we excel in facilitating this critical process. Our tailored vetting process ensures that clients are connected with the most relevant experts who can provide nuanced insights, helping them make informed decisions and effectively manage risks.