The American Society for Quality defines quality as A. the totality of features and characteristics of a product or service that bears on its ability to satisfy stated or implied needs. B. even though it cannot be defined, you know what it is. C. the degree of excellence at an acceptable price and the control of variability at an acceptable cost. D. how well a product fits patterns of consumer preferences.

The correct answer is A "the totality of features and characteristics of a product or service that bears on its ability to satisfy stated or implied needs."

Explanation:

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) characterizes quality as:

An emotional term for which every individual or area has its own definition. In specialized use, quality can have two implications:

1. the qualities of an item or administration that bear on its capacity to fulfill expressed or suggested needs;

2. an item or administration liberated from inadequacies.

From the client perspective: quality methods qualification for use and meeting consumer loyalty.

From the procedure perspective: quality methods conformance with the procedure structure, gauges, and particulars.

From the item perspective: quality methods the level of greatness at an adequate cost.

From the cost perspective: quality methods the best blend of expenses and highlights.