Conceptualization of a meaning-based research approach for tourism service experiences

The purpose of this article is to explain the meaning-based research approach to improve quality of tourism services. The article includes a discussion on tourism quality, information-processing approach (IPA), meaning-based approach (MBA) as an alternative to the IPA, and a case study to illustrate the MBA and strategies to improve service quality design. The MBA is based on an alternative set of assumptions about the tourist that enables managers and researchers to gather in-depth customers’ perceptions of the service environment and improve service quality design. According to the evidence gathered in the case study, the three narrative themes for the backpackers were social interaction with other backpackers including differences between solitary and travel partners, independence, and the symbols of a distinctive backpacker's accommodation. Various management strategies are suggested based on the three themes. Three limitations are noted for the MBA to improve service quality for tourism service experiences.