Biotech acquisitions can bring innovation and entrepreneurial energy to big pharma companies. But for these deals to pay off, acquirers need to align the entire organization on how to strike the right balance between independence and integration. Too much control can mean too little innovation—too little creates unmitigated risks. Preparing a customized roadmap allows acquirers to sustain the target’s scientific entrepreneurship and move the newly acquired clinical pipeline towards full commercial potential. Before you consider a biotech deal read this paper—and avoid the integration pitfalls.