mean or means

[Methulaza]

Which is the correct way of structuring this sentence?
Whichever option is correct, please indicate why
1. The right tools and employee know-how (means) that a project is well managed for all aspects of network performance.
or ...
2. The right tools and employee know-how (mean) that a project is well managed for all aspects of network performance.
The 1st option sounds correct to me but I'm told that the 2nd option is the correct way.

[zahari]

mean is the correct answer here because you have two subjects:1. the (right) tools, 2. (the employee) know-how. therefore, you need a plural verb as well. You may think that since know-how is uncount, it can take a singular verb but, the word and conjoins know-how with tools and the subject is taken as plural. Generally: subjects joined by and take plural verb.

[MrPedantic]

The sentence sounds a little awkward to me. It might be better if you said:

1. Having the right tools and employee know-how means...

MrP