Which one of the following are tools that company managers can use to promote operating excellence in performing value chain activities?
a. Benchmarking, cost effciency optimization, and value chain performance optimazation programs
b. Six signma programs, value chain performance optimazation programs, and best practice innovation programs
c. Total quality management, cost optimization, and value chain efficient programs
d. Business process reengineering, best practice standardization programs, and six sigma
e. adoption of best practices, TQM, and business process reengineering

To promote operational excellence in the execution of value chain activities, the most appropriate tools to be implemented in an organization are the adoption of best practices, TQM and business process reengineering.

Total quality management refers to the continuous improvement of all operational processes, in order to reduce costs, failures, and waste, leading to the implementation, control and review of all organizational processes, including the adoption of advanced technology, adequate training for employees, etc.

Business process reengineering would also help the organization reevaluate its value chain and implement improvements that would increase the performance and functionality of each essential step in the value chain.

Therefore, these integrated tools would ensure continuous optimization at all stages of the value chain, which would mean for the company the effectiveness of the channels and activities for the company to produce the right product, in the right quantity, in the right place and at the right time.