French product philosophy holds that materials are not interchangeable—different materials have inherent properties that affect product quality. Matières nobles—quality leather, wood, natural fibers, fine metals—are valued for inherent qualities that inferior materials cannot match. When making or presenting products, expect French evaluation to consider materials.
What is it made of? Are the materials appropriate to the product’s purpose and positioning? Could better materials have been used? Material selection reveals maker priorities and affects quality directly.
Choosing inferior materials to reduce costs may be perceived as compromising quality, not merely economizing. If your product uses premium materials, communicate that clearly; materials quality provides legitimate basis for positioning and price. Products made from appropriate materials possess qualities that inferior materials cannot provide.
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