Quality Dimension
Garvin proposes eight critical dimensions or categories of quality that can serve as a framework for strategic analysis: Performance, features, reliability, conformance, durability, serviceability, aesthetics, and perceived quality. There are eight such dimensions of quality. These are:
1. Performance:
It involves the various operating characteristics of the product. For a television set, for example, these characteristics will be the quality of the picture, sound, and longevity of the picture tube.
2. Features:
These are characteristics that are supplemental to the basic operating characteristics. In an automobile, for example, a stereo CD player would be an additional feature.
3. Reliability:
Reliability of a product is the degree of dependability and trustworthiness of the benefit of the product for a long period of time.
It addresses the probability that the product will work without interruption or breaking down.
4. Conformance:
It is the degree to which the product conforms to pre-established specifications. All quality products are expected to precisely meet the set standards.
5. Durability:
It measures the length of time that a product performs before a replacement becomes necessary. The durability of home appliances such as a washing machine can range from 10 to 15 years.
6. Serviceability:
Serviceability refers to the promptness, courtesy, proficiency, and ease in the repair when the product breaks down and is sent for repairs.
7. Aesthetics:
The aesthetic aspect of a product is comparatively subjective in nature and refers to its impact on the human senses such as how it looks, feels, sounds, tastes and so on, depending upon the type of product. Automobile companies make sure that in addition to functional quality, the automobiles are also artistically attractive.
8. Perceived quality:
An equally important dimension of quality is the perception of the quality of the product in the mind of the consumer. Honda cars, Sony Walkman and Rolex watches are perceived to be high-quality items by the consumers.
