A worldwide survey of 497 senior executives conducted by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) for AT&T shows that 42% of firms will be deriving half or more of their revenue from foreign markets (those outside their home base) in two years time. Mergers and acquisitions will also be a favored growth vehicle, cited by 40% of the executives polled, and can be the best option for maintaining control over operations in an overseas market and acquiring local talent.
There can be numerous obstacles to successful acquisitions and ventures overseas. Among them is the difficulty of integrating communications and IT networks. Companies today realize that growth abroad must be supported by corresponding IT investment.