The service triad: an empirical study of service robots, customers and frontline employees

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gaby Odekerken-Schröder ◽  
Kars Mennens ◽  
Mark Steins ◽  
Dominik Mahr
Keyword(s):  
Empirical Study ◽  
Social Presence ◽  
Service Robots ◽  
Service Robot ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Frontline Employees ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Casual Dining ◽  
Utilitarian Value

PurposeRecent service studies suggest focusing on the service triad consisting of technology-customer-frontline employee (FLE). This study empirically investigates the role of service robots in this service triad, with the aim to understand the augmentation or substitution role of service robots in driving utilitarian and hedonic value and ultimately customer repatronage.Design/methodology/approachIn study 1, field data are collected from customers (n = 108) who interacted with a service robot and FLE in a fast casual dining restaurant. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test hypotheses about the impact of service robots' anthropomorphism, social presence, value perceptions and augmentation opportunities in the service triad. In study 2, empirical data from a scenario-based experimental design (n = 361) complement the field study by further scrutinizing the interplay between the service robot and FLEs within the service triad.FindingsThe study provides three important contributions. First, the authors provide empirical evidence for the interplay between different actors in the “customer-FLE-technology” service triad resulting in customer repatronage. Second, the empirical findings advance the service management literature by unraveling the relationship between anthropomorphism and social presence and their effect on perceived value in the service triad. And third, the study identifies utilitarian value of service robots as a driver of customer repatronage in fast casual dining restaurants.Practical implicationsThe results help service managers, service robot engineers and designers, and policy makers to better understand the implications of anthropomorphism, and how the utilitarian value of service robots can offer the potential for augmentation or substitution roles in the service triad.Originality/valueBuilding on existing conceptual and laboratory studies on service robots, this is one of the first field studies on the service triad consisting of service robots – customers – frontline employees. The empirical study on service triads provides evidence for the potential of FLEs to augment service robots that exhibit lower levels of functional performance to achieve customer repatronage. FLEs can do this by demonstrating a high willingness to help and having excellent interactions with customers. This finding advocates the joint service delivery by FLE – service robot teams in situations where service robot technology is not fully optimized.

The role of work-to-leisure conflict in promoting frontline employees’ leisure satisfaction

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (7) ◽  
pp. 1539-1555 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jo-Hui Lin ◽  
Jehn-Yih Wong ◽  
Ching-hua Ho
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Tourism Industry ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Frontline Employees ◽  
Leisure Satisfaction ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Hospitality And Tourism Industry ◽  
Demand Control

Purpose – This paper aims to examine a mediating model of work-to-leisure conflict (WLC) based on the job demand-control-support model (JDCS model) and conflict roles of work and non-work life. This model proposes that work loading, time-off autonomy and support from supervisors and co-workers are related to WLC and leisure satisfaction. Design/methodology/approach – A sample of 457 frontline employees drawn from within the hospitality and tourism industry completed a study questionnaire. All hypothesized relationships were estimated using structural equation modeling. Findings – Results support a theoretical model in which WLC works as a partial mediator between job stress variables and leisure satisfaction. Findings suggest that low workload and flexible time-off contribute to alleviating WLC and facilitating leisure satisfaction and with the addition of high co-worker support, directly benefit employee leisure satisfaction. Practical implications – Management implications related to job design and work-related social support are discussed. Originality/value – The current study contributes to the existing knowledge base by testing WLC as a partial mediator between work loading–leisure satisfaction and time-off autonomy–leisure satisfaction relationships. These findings help human resource management managers broaden their understanding of the role of WLC in balancing frontline employees’ life in work and non-work domains.

Exploring key factors influencing customer behavioral intention in robot restaurants

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Xinhua Guan ◽  
Jinhong Gong ◽  
Mingjie Li ◽  
Tzung-Cheng Huan
Keyword(s):  
Service Delivery ◽  
Behavioral Intention ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Negative Attitude ◽  
Individual Characteristics ◽  
Service Robots ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of the robot restaurant servicescape and robot service competence (RSC) on customers’ behavioral intentions and to analyze the mediating role of hedonic value (HV) and utilitarian value (UV) in these relationships and the moderating role of individual characteristics. Design/methodology/approach This research involves seven constructs to be measured, namely, servicescape, RSC, negative attitude toward robots (NAR), openness to change (OC), HV, UV and behavioral intention. This research selects Foodom robot restaurants, located in Shunde and Guangzhou of China, as the research site, and the research objects are customers having dinner in the restaurant. A total of 485 valid data was collected. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data, verify the proposed research model, and test the research hypotheses. Findings The study finds that servicescape and RSC improve customer behavioral intention. Additionally, HV and UV mediate the influence of servicescape and RSC on customer behavioral intention. Moreover, OC negatively moderates the influence of servicescape on UV and that a NAR negatively moderates the influence of RSC on HV. Originality/value Through carefully design of servicescape and the improvement in service capabilities of robots, the original service delivery dominated by frontline service personnel can be transformed into service delivery dominated by service robots, which is conductive to providing a pleasant and unforgettable experience for customers.

Determinants of consumption intention of Chinese cuisines for foreigners: the mediating role of variety seeking behavior

2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 213-222 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wang Xuhui ◽  
Asif Muhammad ◽  
Samia Ayyub
Keyword(s):  
Food Quality ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Liaoning Province ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Variety Seeking ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Utilitarian Value ◽  
Seeking Behavior ◽  
Food Novelty

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the factors affecting the consumption intention of Chinese cuisines for the foreigners living in China. The study also explains the role of variety seeking behavior of consumers in the consumption intention of Chinese cuisines. Design/methodology/approach The quantitative data were obtained using a structured questionnaire that is based on Dalian, Liaoning province, of People’s Republic of China. A total of 305 responses were collected, and out of which, 282 were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Findings The results indicate that food novelty and utilitarian value are better predictors of consumption intention of Chinese cuisines. The food quality is also found to be significant with consumption of Chinese cuisines. The variety seeking behavior of consumers found to mediate the relationship of food quality, food novelty and utilitarian value with consumption intention toward Chinese cuisines. Originality/value The contribution made by the current study is twofold. First, the value of study lies in identifying the factors that are responsible for food consumption intention of foreigners in China, which is an overlooked area in the previous literature. Second, the study also establishes the role of variety seeking behavior of consumers in consumption intention. The authoritative construct of variety seeking behavior matches well with the context of the current study, as the Chinese cuisine is well renowned in the world for its wide variety. Further, the findings are valuable to the stakeholders of restaurant industry in guiding them on how best they can attract foreign consumers toward local Chinese cuisines.

Assessing the hotel service robot interaction on tourists' behaviour: the role of anthropomorphism

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jing Wen Jia ◽  
Namho Chung ◽  
Jooyoung Hwang
Keyword(s):  
User Satisfaction ◽  
Positive Impact ◽  
Service Robots ◽  
Service Robot ◽  
Research Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Hotel Service ◽  
Human Likeness ◽  
The Impact

PurposeThe main purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of service robots on hotel visitors' behaviour and to verify the role of anthropomorphism(human likeness) in customer satisfaction with robots.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey of 381 respondents was conducted, divided into three types of robots according to the level of anthropomorphism. The research model was thoroughly tested using the PLS-SEM method. Research model was tested thoroughly using the PLS-SEM method.FindingsThis study found that user satisfaction with service robots in a hotel had a positive impact on user satisfaction, attitude towards the hotel and room purchase intention. Moreover, our results showed that users were most likely to accept medium-human likeness robots and least likely to accept high–human likeness robots.Originality/valueThis study proposes influencing factors to be considered when researching hotel service robots, as well as practical suggestions for any hotel intending to use or currently using a service robot.

Impact of anthropomorphic features of artificially intelligent service robots on consumer acceptance: moderating role of sense of humor

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mengying Zhang ◽  
Dogan Gursoy ◽  
Zhangyao Zhu ◽  
Si Shi
Keyword(s):  
Service Delivery ◽  
Evaluation Criteria ◽  
Consumer Acceptance ◽  
Service Robots ◽  
Service Robot ◽  
Sense Of Humor ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Moderating Role

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of both physical and personality-related anthropomorphic features of an artificial intelligence service robot on the cognitive and affective appraisals and acceptance of consumers during service delivery. Design/methodology/approach The proposed hypotheses that investigate the effects of service robots’ physical appearance on the emphasis consumers place on each evaluation criteria they use in determining their willingness to accept the use of service robots in service delivery and the moderating role of sense of humor are tested by conducting two studies using scenario-based experiments. Findings The results show that humanlike appearance leads to higher performance expectancy, mascot-like appearance generates higher positive emotions and machine-like appearance results in higher effort expectancy. The effects of humanlike and mascot-like appearances on consumer acceptance are moderated by the sense of humor of service robots. However, the sense of humor effect is attenuated with a machine-like appearance owing to the lack of anthropomorphism. Practical implications This study provides crucial insights for hospitality managers who plan to use service robots in service delivery. The findings highlight the key roles of appearance type and sense of humor of service robots in influencing the appraisals and acceptance of consumers regarding the use of service robots in service delivery. Originality/value This study focuses on comparing the effects of traditional and mascot-like appearances of service robots on consumer appraisals and identifies sense of humor as a cute anthropomorphized personality trait of service robots.

Compulsive buying of branded apparel, its antecedents, and the mediating role of brand attachment

2020 ◽  
Vol 32 (7) ◽  
pp. 1539-1563 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xin-Jean Lim ◽  
Jun-Hwa Cheah ◽  
Tat Huei Cham ◽  
Hiram Ting ◽  
Mumtaz Ali Memon
Keyword(s):  
Compulsive Buying ◽  
Maladaptive Behavior ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Buying Behavior ◽  
Obsessive Compulsive ◽  
Brand Attachment ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Hedonic Value ◽  
Utilitarian Value

PurposeCompulsive buying continues to be a maladaptive behavior that draws the attention of both scholars and marketers. The present study aims to investigate the determinants of compulsive buying, which are conceptualized as impulsive and obsessive–compulsive buying, and the mediation effect of brand attachment.Design/methodology/approachUsing purposive sampling, a self-administered questionnaire was completed by 600 young consumers in Malaysia. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized relationships.FindingsThe results show that materialism, utilitarian value, and brand attachment are positively related to impulsive buying, while materialism, hedonic value, and brand attachment have a positive effect on obsessive–compulsive buying. In addition, brand attachment is found to mediate the effect of materialism and utilitarian value on both compulsive buying.Research limitations/implicationsThe study provides new insights into brand management literature by examining the predictors of impulsive and obsessive–compulsive buying. Moreover, brand attachment is found to be a significant mechanism that induces negative buying behavior. However, due to the growth of online shopping, future research should consider different types of retailers to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter in the modern business landscape.Originality/valueBeing one of the few studies to address both impulsive and obsessive–compulsive buying behaviors among consumers, this study highlights the essential role of brand attachment as a mediator in the contemporary setting. Moreover, the interrelationships between self-congruence, materialism, hedonic value, utilitarian value, brand attachment, and compulsive buying behavior are examined in a holistic manner.

Modeling satisfaction and repurchase intentions of mobile smart wristbands: the role of social mindfulness and perceived value

2018 ◽  
Vol 19 (3) ◽  
pp. 237-250 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adesegun Oyedele ◽  
Roberto Saldivar ◽  
Monica D. Hernandez ◽  
Emily Goenner
Keyword(s):  
Consumer Satisfaction ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Perceived Value ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Repurchase Intentions ◽  
Utilitarian Value ◽  
Modeling Software ◽  
Us University

Purpose This paper aims to empirically test a model of different facets of perceived value (economic, emotional, aesthetic and convenience) and social mindfulness (SM) as determinants of consumer satisfaction and repurchase intentions of mobile smart wristbands. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire designed to assess these effects was administered to students at a Midwestern US university. Data were analyzed using AMOS structural equation modeling software. Findings The findings reveal that SM was significant in explicating perceived convenience value. The utilitarian value measures in the model (economic and convenience) were found to significantly affect satisfaction and in turn, repurchase intention. Surprisingly, all hedonic-related constructs in the model (emotional and aesthetic) did not significantly affect satisfaction and subsequently, repurchase intentions. Practical implications Findings from this research suggest that when targeting young adults, marketing managers and retailers should focus their efforts to convenience value as influenced by SM. Originality/value This is one of only a few studies in marketing to investigate the role of SM and perceived value on satisfaction and repurchase intentions of a technology gadget among young consumers.

The drivers of E-banking entrepreneurship: an empirical study

2019 ◽  
Vol 38 (2) ◽  
pp. 485-500
Author(s):  
Khaled Saleh Al-Omoush ◽  
Mohammad Khalid Al Attar ◽  
Isam Hamad Saleh ◽  
Ayman Abdalmajeed Alsmadi
Keyword(s):  
Empirical Study ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Organizational Context ◽  
Banking Industry ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Management Support ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Top Management Support ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the drivers of e-banking entrepreneurship. The impact of e-banking entrepreneurship on banks’ performance in the banking industry is also investigated. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire was developed to collect data from 16 banks with a sample of 214 respondents. Structural equation modeling using PLS was conducted to analyze the data. Findings The results reveal a significant impact of top management support, organizational context, technological context and social capital on the degree of e-business entrepreneurship. The findings also reveal a direct impact of e-banking entrepreneurship on achieving a competitive advantage, financial performance and customer performance. Originality/value The present empirical study contributes to a better understanding of the existing theories and practices of banking entrepreneurship and e-innovations in today’s banking industry. This study also provides insights into the drivers and the role of e-entrepreneurship in this industry for improving the opportunities of competitiveness and growth. The findings of the present study are of importance to both academic and practitioner audiences. The present study provides empirical evidence to bolster e-banking technology as an enabler of banking entrepreneurship and improving performance. Additionally, these findings provide directives to managers regarding the untapped opportunities and potential that innovative e-banking technology can offer in a highly volatile and rapidly changing environment.

Rise of the machines: examining the influence of professional service robots attributes on consumers’ experience

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yonggui Wang ◽  
Xiaomei Cai ◽  
Changliang Xu ◽  
Jun (Justin) Li
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Service Sector ◽  
Perceived Value ◽  
Professional Service ◽  
Service Robots ◽  
Sensor Technology ◽  
Service Robot ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Intelligent Robots

Purpose This study aims to explore the antecedents of perceived value and the moderating effect of trust and the relationship between these antecedents and perceived value in the context of the service sector. Design/methodology/approach The multivariate statistical analysis technique of structural equation modeling was used to test the proposed theoretical model. Findings The results indicate that self-efficacy, motivation, social influence, facilitating conditions and emotions have a significant and direct relationship with customers’ perceived value and that trust can enhance the effect of these antecedents on perceived value. These findings have several significant implications for service robot implementation within the service sector. Originality/value With the advancement in artificial intelligence and sensor technology, various industries have launched the practice of deploying intelligent robots to build competitive advantages. The use of intelligent robots to assist with the customer service process and improve consumers’ experience within the service sector is becoming more commonplace.

The effect of psychological empowerment on job burnout and competitive advantage

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 47-71 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ali Safari ◽  
Arash Adelpanah ◽  
Razieh Soleimani ◽  
Parisa Heidari Aqagoli ◽  
Rosa Eidizadeh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Organizational Commitment ◽  
Competitive Advantage ◽  
Indirect Effect ◽  
Psychological Empowerment ◽  
Job Burnout ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Mediating Role

Purpose This study aims at investigating the effect of psychological empowerment on job burnout and competitive advantage with the mediating role of organizational commitment and creativity. Design/methodology/approach The statistical population included all the managers and staffs of Tooka Company in Iran, and for data analysis, 120 completed questionnaires were used. Data analysis was carried out by SPSS 18 and Amos 20 software and structural equation modeling method. To test the mediating relationships, bootstrap method was used. Findings The findings showed that psychological empowerment has a significant direct effect on job burnout and competitive advantage. Also, psychological empowerment has a significant indirect effect on job burnout through the mediating role of organizational commitment. In addition, psychological empowerment has a significant indirect effect on competitive advantage through the mediating role of organizational creativity. Originality/value This study is among the first to investigate the relationship between psychological empowerment, job burnout, competitive advantage, organizational commitment and creativity.

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