Management focus: complete the phrase—Critical _____ factors are those that are vital for a manager to contribute fully to organizational goals.

Introduction / Context:
The concept of Critical Success Factors (CSFs) helps managers focus attention and resources on the few areas that must go right for the organization to achieve its mission. Identifying CSFs guides KPI selection, dashboard design, and prioritization of improvement projects in IT and business functions alike.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are completing a management phrase used in planning and performance management.
• CSFs are tied to strategy and can cascade into measurable KPIs.
• The manager’s contribution is evaluated in relation to these factors.

Concept / Approach:
“Critical success factors” are the limited set of activities or conditions that have a disproportionate impact on outcomes. Examples include product quality, customer satisfaction, regulatory compliance, or cycle-time reduction, depending on the strategy. Properly defined CSFs inform information requirements for MIS/DSS so managers can monitor and act in these areas.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Management literature consistently uses “Critical Success Factors (CSFs)” to denote vital priorities for achieving objectives.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Tactical/decision/concise do not complete the standard phrase and would misrepresent the concept.
• “None of the above” is incorrect because “success” is the well-known completion.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing CSFs with KPIs; CSFs are the focus areas, while KPIs are the metrics used to monitor those areas.

Final Answer:
success