Which product characteristic suggests that a new product is perceived as better than existing options?

The characteristic that indicates a new product is perceived as better than existing options is relative advantage. This concept refers to the degree to which a product is seen as superior to its predecessors or competitors. When consumers view a product as having clear benefits—such as improved performance, efficiency, or value—they are more likely to adopt it.

Relative advantage is critical in influencing consumer behavior, as it directly addresses the question of why someone would choose a new product over one they are already using. If potential adopters believe that the new offering will provide them with more advantages, they are more inclined to accept it, leading to higher market acceptance and success.

In contrast, complexity refers to how difficult a product is to use; trial-ability relates to the extent to which potential customers can experiment with a product before committing; and observability pertains to how visible the benefits of the product are to potential consumers. While these characteristics can influence consumer adoption, they do not inherently convey the notion of superiority over existing options like relative advantage does.