What does 'affordability' in product design refer to?

Affordability in product design primarily refers to the development of cost-effective products that meet quality standards for the target market. This means that designers aim to create products that are within financial reach for their intended consumers while not sacrificing quality and functionality.

By focusing on this balance, product designers consider the economic conditions and expectations of the target audience. They strive to ensure that the product provides value for the price while maintaining durability, usability, and overall quality. This approach allows a broader audience access to the product, aligning with the principles of good design which emphasize both function and accessibility.

The other concepts focus on exclusive or luxury products or reduction of costs without regard to quality, which would contradict the essence of affordability as it relates to maintaining a standard that appeals to the target market.