Strategy is the operating constitution of your deal. Define a one-page integration thesis, pick an integration model, publish decision rights, protect must-not-break areas, and stage the work so early wins build belief while big moves are taken with evidence.

The first quarter sets trust. Use this 14-week sequence to execute Day-1 cleanly, defend revenue, publish roadmap or compliance bridges, stage TSA exits, and make benefits visible in finance—turning a strategy into bankable traction.