What is NOT a characteristic of quality as per current marketing standards?

Indifference to defects is not considered a characteristic of quality in current marketing standards. In fact, quality is closely linked to the ability of a product or service to meet or exceed customer expectations. This includes minimizing defects and ensuring that offerings are reliable and effective.

In contemporary marketing, organizations place a significant emphasis on customer satisfaction and strive to maintain consistency in their delivery. Meeting customer expectations is crucial, as customers tend to associate high quality with products that fulfill their needs effectively and efficiently. Therefore, having a proactive approach to addressing and reducing defects is vital for businesses striving to enhance their quality standards and retain customers. Indifference to defects runs counter to these principles, as it suggests a lack of commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.