Which of the following is a key concept in TQM?

Continuous improvement is a central concept in Total Quality Management (TQM). It emphasizes the ongoing effort of an organization to enhance its products, services, and processes. This philosophy encourages all employees to identify areas for improvement and to implement changes that lead to increased efficiency, higher quality, and better customer satisfaction. Continuous improvement fosters a culture where feedback is valued, and innovative solutions are sought on a regular basis, leading to sustained organizational growth and competitive advantage.

The other options do not align with TQM principles. Rapid production times may prioritize speed over quality, which can lead to a decline in product standards. A focus on costs rather than quality undermines the purpose of TQM, which seeks to improve quality and reduce inefficiencies. Isolation of departments contradicts the collaborative approach vital to TQM, where cross-departmental cooperation is essential for achieving comprehensive quality improvements.