Operational Due Diligence
What is operational due diligence? Operational due diligence checks how a business actually runs: its customers, employees, marketing, facilities, vendors and day-to-day systems. The Exit School guides buyers through a task-by-task operational review and helps them build a 90-day plan for their first months as owner.
Who it's for
- Buyers who have confirmed the financials and want to know what they'll be walking into on day one, and what could break when the owner leaves.
What's included
- A task list covering marketing and customer acquisition, employees and key roles, facilities and equipment, vendors and suppliers, and remaining financial and legal items
- Regular check-ins so you always know what to focus on next
- A 1:1 session to build your 90-day ownership plan, covering your first three months as owner
- Guidance on what to observe and ask during your weekly seller meetings
How it works
- Start operational tasks while financing is in process, so waiting time isn't wasted.
- Work through each area on your checklist with the seller.
- Flag key-person, customer-concentration and equipment risks.
- Build your 90-day plan with a coach.
- Carry open items into closing schedules.
Frequently asked questions
What should I check in operational due diligence?
Key employees and whether they'll stay, customer concentration, how the business gets new customers, the condition of equipment and facilities, vendor terms, and how much depends on the current owner.
When does operational due diligence happen?
After the financials check out. In our process it runs during financing and becomes the main focus as you approach closing.
What is a 90-day plan?
A written plan for your first three months as owner: who you'll meet, what you'll learn, what you won't change yet, and the first improvements you'll make.