How does a well-executed beta test benefit a company?

A well-executed beta test benefits a company primarily by identifying and addressing issues before the full product launch. This phase allows a company to gather real-world feedback from users, which can highlight any potential problems or areas for improvement that may not have been evident during development. By testing the product in a controlled environment with actual users, the company can make necessary adjustments, enhancing the product's quality and increasing the chances of a successful market entry.

This proactive approach helps mitigate risks associated with launching a flawed product, which could lead to customer dissatisfaction or financial losses. It also demonstrates a commitment to quality and customer experience, potentially building trust with future customers.

The other options do not accurately represent the purpose or outcome of a beta test. For instance, increasing costs or disengaging from customer feedback contradicts the goal of refining the product based on user input. Creating a public relations campaign, while important for marketing, does not address the core function of a beta test, which is focused on product performance and user experience before a wider launch.