ExitReady™ Framework
Systematic M&A Preparation Through Investment-Grade Standards
ExitReady transforms chaotic exit preparation into a systematic framework based on 6 scientifically validated exit dimensions. Grounded in 180+ verified studies.
The Problem – Evidence from Research
The Exit Success Gap
Only 20-30% of companies
are successfully sold
[6][7]
33% of Swiss SMEs
disappear due to lack of succession
[8]
50% of companies
don't survive 5 years (Swiss reality)
[14]
70-80% of exits fail
due to inadequate preparation
[6][7]
M&A Reality
The Solution – ExitReady™ Systematic
Core Philosophy
Systematized M&A preparation through proven investment-banking standards. Investment-grade readiness through structured 6-dimension optimization.
Framework Components
6-Dimension Assessment
Scientifically validated exit-readiness scoring (0-100)
Investment-Grade Roadmap
Structured M&A preparation process with measurable milestones
Due Diligence Toolkit
Practical templates for systematic DD preparation
The 6 Exit-Readiness Dimensions
The ExitReady framework is based on 6 weighted dimensions that make investment-grade M&A readiness systematically measurable.
1. Financial Excellence
Big4-audit-ready standards for maximum buyer confidence
- • Clean books (IFRS/GAAP compliance)
- • Monthly close <15 days
- • 3-year financial forecast
- • Working capital management
2. Operational Excellence
Documented, scalable processes for business continuity
- • Process documentation >80%
- • IT system integration
- • Quality management system
- • Scalability-proof architecture
3. Legal & Compliance
100% clean bill of health for smooth due diligence
- • M&A-optimized corporate structure
- • IP portfolio protected & documented
- • Contract database >95% complete
- • Compliance audit 100% clean
4. Market Position
Quantified growth story with competitive advantage
- • Market share analysis (current)
- • Competitive advantage defined
- • Customer concentration <30%
- • Growth story quantified
5. Management Team
Key person risk minimized through retention & succession
- • Key persons identified
- • Retention contracts optimized
- • Succession planning tested
- • Team autonomy documented
6. Investment Memo
Professional-grade documentation for strategic buyers
- • Professional investment memo
- • Synergy analysis for buyers
- • Risk mitigation strategy
- • Virtual data room (VDR) setup
Exit-Readiness Score Formula
Exit-Readiness Score =
(Financial × 0.35) + (Operational × 0.25) +
(Legal × 0.20) + (Market × 0.12) + (Management × 0.08)
Scientific Foundation
Research Validation (180+ Studies)
M&A Success Factors
- 25-35% value increase through professional systematization possible (Bain) [15]
- 40-50% faster DD processes at prepared companies possible [Research M&A]
- 67% higher exit success rate at exit-ready companies [Research M&A]
Investment-Grade Standards
- Big4 audit standards significantly increase buyer confidence [M&A Research]
- Clean books reduce DD duration by 40-50% [Research M&A]
- Documented processes minimize post-acquisition risks [M&A Research]
Methodology Validation
- •Based on investment-banking M&A best practices
- •Integrates Big4 due diligence standards
- •Validated through PE/VC exit-readiness frameworks
Complete references: See /CEOPRENEUR/framework/programmes/research.md
Who is ExitReady For?
Ideal For:
- ✓Entrepreneurs with CHF 5M+ company value
- ✓Exit horizon 1-3 years
- ✓Desire for maximum exit price
- ✓Willingness to invest in investment-grade standards
Typical Situations:
- →Strategic exit planned
- →PE investor looking for portfolio exit
- →Family business succession via exit
- →Management buy-out preparation
Implement ExitReady in Practice
The ExitReady framework is implemented through systematic programs. From 90-day intensive to 12-month support.