'challenges' or 'challenge'?

[dkqmail]

Hi,
I have two questions.
1. Should I use 'challenges' or 'challenge' in this text?
2. Should I use article 'the' or 'a' before 'criteria'?

That is why firms attach great importance to the possibility of using integrated system. But the key challenges for people designing solutions for manufacture applications is a complete lack of a criteria and requirements.

Thank you in advance for your help.

 

[emsr2d2]

I would use "the key challenge ... is the complete lack of criteria and requirements.

As you can see, I would not use an article at all before "criteria".

 

[Tdol]

2. Should I use article 'the' or 'a' before 'criteria'?

Criteria is plural so a is wrong- the singular is criterion.

 

[PeterValk]

I'm not a teacher!


"That is why firms attach great importance to the possibility of using integrated system"

That is why firms attach great importance to the possibility of using integrated systems, or:
That is why firms attach great importance to the possibility of using an integrated system.

You need to use either the plural (systems) or an article in this sentence.