What does variability in service quality imply?

Variability in service quality refers to the differences in the quality of service that can occur depending on various factors, especially the individuals providing the service. This implies that, unlike products that can be manufactured to exact specifications with little variation, services often depend on the skills, attitudes, and performance of the service provider. For instance, a customer's experience at a restaurant can vary significantly based on which server is attending to them or how the kitchen staff is performing on a given day.

Hence, option C highlights that quality can differ based on who provides the service, capturing the inherent inconsistencies that can arise in service delivery. It emphasizes the human element involved in service provision, which is a core characteristic of the service industry and influences customer satisfaction.