This study empirically examines the impact of self-service technology quality (SSTQUAL) on the flow experience—a state of positive psychological immersion—in the context of the hotel industry, a traditionally labor-intensive sector currently trans...
This study empirically examines the impact of self-service technology quality (SSTQUAL) on the flow experience—a state of positive psychological immersion—in the context of the hotel industry, a traditionally labor-intensive sector currently transitioning toward contactless services through the implementation of self-service kiosks. Furthermore, the study investigates the moderating effect of digital literacy on this relationship. By doing so, it aims to provide practical guidelines for hotel managers considering the adoption of kiosks, while also expanding the academic scope of research on SSTQUAL. The key findings are as follows:
First, the empirical results confirm that specific subdimensions of SSTQUAL, namely enjoyment and customization, have a significant positive effect on flow. This implies that when introducing self-service kiosks, selecting systems that can deliver engaging user experiences and personalized services—such as language or age-specific interfaces—may have stronger explanatory power than other quality factors.
Second, all subdimensions of SSTQUAL, except for convenience, were found to have a significant positive effect on continuous usage intention. This finding suggests that as users perceive higher quality in self-service technologies, their willingness to continue using such services increases. In turn, this reinforces not only the acceptance of the technology but also enhances consumer satisfaction toward the hotel providing the service.
Third, flow was shown to have a significant positive impact on continuous usage intention. This supports previous findings indicating that when users experience positive psychological states—such as enjoyment and immersion—they are more likely to engage in hedonic behavior and continue using the service.
Fourth, flow partially mediated the relationship between SSTQUAL and continuous usage intention. This result implies that service strategies should go beyond simply improving quality, and instead foster user engagement through immersive service environments. In particular, creating a service scape that supports flow experiences can enhance both user satisfaction and behavioral intention to reuse the self-service technology.
Fifth, the moderating effect of digital literacy in the relationship between SSTQUAL and flow was partially supported. Specifically, digital literacy significantly moderated the effects of design and assurance on flow. This suggests that to minimize disparities in user satisfaction caused by differing levels of digital skills, it is crucial to enhance user-centric service quality elements such as convenience, functionality, security, enjoyment, and customization.
Lastly, the results empirically confirm that perceived SSTQUAL and the degree of immersion may differ depending on the user's level of digital literacy. This highlights the need to provide standardized service quality that accounts for variations in users’ technological competencies. As with traditional face-to-face service management, it is essential to reduce service quality discrepancies among users and to develop differentiated self-service strategies that ensure consistent user experiences across diverse user groups.