Final answer:
Consumer products are classified based on attributes like price, quality, functionality, and brand, which are considered by engineers when evaluating design quality. Beyond physical features, intangible aspects such as guarantees, reputation, services, and advertising also play a key role in product differentiation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Consumer products are classified based on attributes such as price, quality, functionality, and brand. These characteristics are essential because they influence the consumer's decision-making process. When engineers focus on a product’s attributes, they are considering factors like these to evaluate the quality of the design.
Physical aspects may include features advertised such as unbreakable bottles or nonstick surfaces. The location of a company, such as a gas station at a busy intersection, can also be a distinguishing factor.
Moreover, intangible aspects like satisfaction guarantees, reputation for high quality, free delivery services, or financing options can significantly differentiate a product. Additionally, product differentiation may also occur in the minds of consumers due to factors such as advertising, which can lead to a preference for certain brands even when there is no noticeable difference in the product itself. All these factors collectively are involved in consumer product classification.