Key Success Factors
Ksf are the product attributes, competencies,
competitive capabilities and market
achievements with the greatest impact on
future competitive success in the market place
Technology related KSF
• Expertise in a particular technology or in
scientific research(important in
pharmaceuticals, internet applications, mobile
communications and most high tech industries)
• Proven ability to improve production processes
(important in industries where advancing
technology opens the way for higher
manufacturing efficiency and lower production
costs)
Manufacturing related KSF
• Ability to achieve economies of scale and/or
capture learning curve effects
• Quality control know how(important in
industries where customer insist on product
reliability)
• High utilization of fixed assets(important in
capital intensive/ high fix cost industries)
• Access to adequate supplies of skilled labour
• High labor productivity(important for items
with high labor content)
• Low cost product design and
engineering(reduces manufacturing costs)
• Ability to manufacture or assemble products
that are customized to buyer specifications
l
• A strong network of wholesale
distributors/dealers
• Strong direct sales capabilities via the internet
or having company owned retail outlets
• Ability to secure favorable display space on
retailer shelves
Marketing related KSF
• Breadth of product line and product selection
• A well known and well respected brand name
• Fast, accurate technical assistance
• Courteous personalized customer services
• Accurate filling of buyer orders
• Customer guarantees and warranties(important
in new product introductions)
• Clever advertising
Skills and capability related KSF
• A talented workforce(important in
professional services like accounting and
investment banking)
• National or global distribution capabilities
• Product innovation capbilities(important in
industries where rivals are racing to be first to
market with new product attributes or
performance features )
• Design expertise (important in fashion and
apparel industries)
• Short delivery time capability
• Supply chain managemen capabilities
• Strong ecommerce capabilities
Other types of KSF
• Overall low costs(not just in manufacturing) so
as to be able to profitably meet low price
expectation of customer
• Convenient locations(important in many
retailing businesses)
• Ability to provide fast, convenient after the
sale repairs and service
• A strong balance sheet and access to financial
capital
• Patent protection