Which factor can lead to increased operational efficiency?

The factor that can lead to increased operational efficiency is the clear alignment of organizational goals and processes. When an organization ensures that its goals are well-defined and aligned with its processes, it creates a unified direction for all teams and departments. This alignment allows for streamlined operations, as everyone understands their role and how their activities contribute to the overall objectives of the organization.

In this scenario, processes can be optimized to eliminate redundancies, enhance collaboration, and improve communication among different teams. As a result, resources can be used more effectively, leading to faster decision-making, improved quality, and a reduction in wasted time and effort. In a well-aligned organization, employees are more motivated and focused on meeting shared objectives, which can significantly boost productivity and overall efficiency.

In contrast, the other options would typically lead to decreased operational efficiency. Reducing technology use might hamper access to important tools that enhance productivity. Complicating workflow designs can create confusion and increase errors or delays. Lastly, decreasing focus on customer demand can lead to misalignment between what the organization produces and what customers actually want, resulting in inefficiencies in meeting market needs.