Which of the following factors can negatively impact product quality during manufacturing?

When considering the factors that can negatively impact product quality during manufacturing, material quality is critical. High-quality materials are essential for producing durable and reliable products. If the materials used are substandard or defective, they can lead to defects in the final product, compromising functionality, safety, and overall customer satisfaction.

For instance, if a manufacturer uses low-grade metals, plastics, or other components, the resulting product may not withstand stress or may not perform as expected. This can lead to increased returns, customer complaints, and a damaged reputation for the company. As such, ensuring that materials are of high quality is a fundamental step in maintaining product standards and ensuring that manufacturing processes meet regulatory and customer expectations.

Other factors like employee motivation, market demands, and marketing strategies may influence production efficiency or market success, but they do not directly compromise the inherent quality of the materials being used in manufacturing.