The VICARS® survey covers the IQ and EQ of the six dimensions that are essential in M&A integration:

1. Vision
2. Incentives
3. Culture
4. Actions
5. Resources
6. Skills.

Without vision, there is confusion. Without incentives, there is resistance. If culture is not addressed, there is failure. Lack of action management leads to a false start. Without resources there is frustration, and if the necessary skills are not present, there is anxiety. Each of these can derail an integration. The purpose of the questionnaire is to gage M&A integration readiness in both acquirer and target, across departments and geographies.