Quality Surface

What is a quality surface? This can have numerous interpretations, but a useful and simple definition is “A surface which adds value”. Obviously, we can then argue what is meant by value, and whose value, but as a general position the definition is quite suitable.
What other characteristics can be included to help better define a quality surface? Having a surface that is safe will be important, as will it being to a good standard (although good would need defining). Other characteristics would be a surface that is fit-for-purpose, has a suitable carrying capacity (or sustainable use), and provides for good customer satisfaction.
To help reduce subjectivity of what is meant by a good, or any other, standard and to provide objectivity in helping clarify some of the more specific characteristics of a quality surface, the use of performance standards – whether PQS for sports surfaces or those included within the British Standard BS-7370-3 for amenity grass surfaces – can provide tangible and objective measures, which can be used in managing a pitch effectively.
What are the likely impacts of a quality surface? This will depend on the extent of the quality, but in very general and indicative terms the following comparisons can help towards better visualising what is meant by a quality surface.