A critical success factor (CSF) is a management term that designates an element that is necessary for an organization or project to achieve its mission. An FCE is a critical factor or activity required to ensure the success of a company or organization. The term was initially used in the world of data analysis and business analysis. For example, an FCE of an information technology project may be user involvement.[1]​.

Critical success factors should not be confused with success “criteria.” These are the results of a project or the achievements of an organization necessary to consider that the project has been a success or that the organization is successful. Success criteria are defined along with objectives and can be quantified using key performance indicators.[2]​ There are many tools to help implement critical success factors, such as the business model canvas, which help to successfully develop a business model or achieve a specific objective.

The concept of "success factors" was developed by D. Ronald Daniel of McKinsey & Company in 1961.

Critical success factors are basically the main means of achieving success in a company, but for this to be possible it is necessary that they be accompanied by key success factors, which need to be personalized depending on the department; Each role has its own key area of ​​success. These methods try to achieve success for the company based on standards and rules that have to be followed step by step to guarantee better service for customers or partners.[6]​.

Key result areas refer to the rules of a specific role in a company. This term highlights the scope of the job profile for the employee, allowing them to have a better view of their potential role in the company. Key result areas will differ depending on the department. Key result area is a specific role that each department has to follow to provide the goods and services in perfect condition to the end customer or another department.