Efficiency
The United States remains today one of resource-richest countries in the world. Although efficiency is among the key characteristics of any product, Americans focus less on the conservation of material and on energy consumption. Output trumps efficiency. Patterns
Intelligence
For Americans products are meant to be tools or instruments. An intelligent product makes work and life easier. It expands possibilities. Intelligent products execute precisely the commands of the user. No more, no less. Most importantly, an intelligent product is easy to use. It is intuitively understood. Patterns
Reliability
For Americans a reliable product functions well under adverse conditions. If it has problems, the supplier reacts promptly (service), at minimum additional cost (warranty) and at minimum inconvenience (substitute product). Patterns
Durability
Durability is relative. Products don’t last forever. Change is, however, constant, a given. Products must adapt to the changing needs of customers. Americans value durability, but within a more narrow scope. Patterns
Quality
For Americans quality is always a function of price. In fact, it[‘]{dir=”rtl”}s all about value, about the relation of output to price. Quality, in the technical sense, is an important product characteristic, but one of several. Patterns