Which of the following is considered a key principle of Total Quality Management (TQM)?

The choice highlighting customer-focused improvement is indeed a fundamental principle of Total Quality Management (TQM). This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and meeting customer needs as a primary driver of improvement in processes, products, and services. By focusing on the customer, organizations can identify areas for enhancement that lead to greater satisfaction and loyalty, ultimately contributing to the organization's success.

TQM operates under the premise that quality should be a key focus of all organizational activities, and customer feedback is essential in identifying quality gaps. This perspective ensures that everyone in the organization aligns their efforts toward achieving high-quality outcomes that meet or exceed customer expectations, fostering an environment of continuous improvement.

In contrast, options reflecting short-term thinking, the elimination of team collaboration, or decreased employee input do not align with TQM principles. TQM encourages long-term strategies focused on sustainable quality, collaborative teamwork to leverage diverse perspectives, and the involvement of employees at all levels to ensure broad engagement and commitment to quality initiatives.