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SERVICE QUALITY EVALUATION IN THE HOTEL INDUSTRY THROUGH THE APPLICATION OF ITEM RESPONSE THEORY

Abstract:

Service evaluation is a mechanism for maintaining and improving the quality of services provided, as it enables feedback on the decision-making process of organizations, so that new actions can be implemented, and adjustments made. The aim of this study was to develop a formula, and carry out a simulation using the technique of Item Response Theory (IRT). The collection method used to evaluate service quality in hotels was disguised and unscheduled direct observation. A total of 191 hotels were evaluated by eight trained researchers (mystery shoppers), using a structured instrument. The data analysis was quantitative, and was performed using IRT. The results show a service quality evaluation instrument with excellent internal consistency and the convergence of the algorithm in the application of IRT, enabling calibration of the items and, consequently, their use. This research structures a new perspective for Service Quality Evaluation that is suitable for an objective and measurable analysis of quality. The use of this approach determines a new theoretical dimension and a new practical component for Service Quality Evaluation that will assist managers in decision-making, with greater security and improved processes.

Keywords:
hospitality; item response theory (IRT); mystery shopper; service quality evaluation

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