Substantial factor

A factor that assists in making a consequential decision or is capable of altering the outcome of such a decision, excluding factors that merely provide information or perform narrow procedural or preparatory tasks; this standard determines when an AI system qualifies as a substantial contributor to consequential decisions under the Act.

A standard indicating the AI system materially influences the outcome of a decision rather than merely providing background information; an AI component is a substantial factor when its outputs meaningfully shape or determine decision outcomes subject to the Act's oversight rules. This concept is used to distinguish routine automation from systems triggering high-risk controls.