What term describes the benefit derived from a product or service compared to its total cost?

The term that describes the benefit derived from a product or service compared to its total cost is "Value." Value encompasses the overall usefulness, satisfaction, or advantage that a product or service provides in relation to the costs incurred to acquire it. It reflects the perceived worth of an item, which can be influenced by factors such as quality, features, and customer preferences.

When discussing other options, "Cost-effectiveness" focuses specifically on the economic efficiency of a product or service, comparing the costs of achieving certain outcomes rather than the overall benefit versus cost dynamic. "Return on investment" measures the gain or loss generated relative to the amount of money invested, but it doesn't capture the broader spectrum of value beyond financial returns. "Profit margin" pertains specifically to the difference between the cost of goods sold and the revenue generated, primarily reflecting company profitability rather than the holistic value offered to users.