What does quality refer to when assessing a product?

When assessing a product, quality fundamentally refers to its ability to perform its function over time. This encompasses a range of factors, including durability, reliability, and the effectiveness with which it meets the intended purpose. Quality ensures that a product will consistently deliver the expected performance throughout its lifespan, which is critical for consumer satisfaction and trust in the product.

While elements like visual appeal and sustainability can contribute to the overall perception of quality, they are more subjective and can vary among consumers. Price, on the other hand, may not accurately reflect the product's quality; a higher price does not inherently mean a better-performing product. Therefore, the ability to function reliably over time is the cornerstone of quality assessment, making it the most relevant criterion in this context.