What might affect the quality of a product?

The quality of a product is directly influenced by the materials used in its production and the methods employed during its creation. If a manufacturer decides to switch to inferior materials or alters production techniques to lower costs, it can result in a significant decline in the product's quality. For instance, using lower-grade raw materials can lead to a product that is less durable or performs poorly compared to previous versions made with higher quality inputs. Similarly, changes in manufacturing methods that prioritize speed over craftsmanship can compromise the quality of the final product. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the critical link between the resources and processes that directly affect the quality of products being offered in the market.

Other options may relate to the market dynamics and consumer interaction but do not inherently alter the actual physical attributes or functional performance of the product itself. Changes in marketing strategies, consumer preferences, or sales tactics primarily influence demand and consumer perception rather than the intrinsic quality of the product.