Temporal and spatial e‐service value

Abstract

Purpose

To develop a conceptual framework for temporal and spatial e‐service value.

Design/methodology/approach

In the empirical study, the temporal and spatial value of e‐services is qualitatively explored. Positioned within service research, a conceptualisation of customer perceived value based on benefit and sacrifice of technical, functional, temporal and spatial dimensions is used.

Findings

The qualitative study identifies subdimensions of temporal and spatial value. In addition to benefits such as access and flexibility, these subdimensions also involve aspects related to temporal and spatial sacrifice. The subdimensions indicate the versatility of the dimensions. Another finding is the interdependence between the benefit and sacrifice of service value.

Research limitations/implications

Extends prior research by qualitatively describing benefit and sacrifice of temporal and spatial value. Presents a conceptual model of temporal and spatial e‐service value. Future research needs to quantitatively validate the subdimensions of the temporal and spatial dimensions across different contexts.

Practical implications

Shows what temporal and spatial aspects in services create value for customers, especially in an e‐service context. Particularly, it identifies aspects that decrease the perceived service value. An important marketing challenge is to emphasize and develop the value‐increasing parts of a service while understanding and reducing its value‐decreasing components.

Originality/value

Contributes to marketing research and practice with its conceptualisation of temporal and spatial e‐service value. The importance of time and location in creating customer perceived value is emphasised.

Citation

Heinonen, K. (2006), "Temporal and spatial e‐service value", International Journal of Service Industry Management, Vol. 17 No. 4, pp. 380-400. https://doi.org/10.1108/09564230610680677