Understanding Services: Concepts, Classification, and Selection

Service Concept

A service is an intangible activity that cannot be owned, and is produced and consumed simultaneously. Unlike physical goods, services often involve interaction between the provider and the consumer. Service quality depends heavily on human factors, skills, and dedication of the provider.

Service Classification

Based on Nature:

Consumer Services: Include services that meet individual needs such as healthcare, education, entertainment, tourism, etc.
Business Services: Support business operations such as accounting, management consulting, freight transport, etc.
Public Services: Provided by government or state agencies such as security, defense, public education, etc.

Based on Customer Contact:

High-Contact Services: Require direct interaction between the provider and the customer, for example, restaurant, hotel, healthcare services…
Low-Contact Services: Do not require direct interaction, for example, postal services, shipping…

Based on Tangibility:

Tangible Services: The results are partially visible or perceptible, for example, haircutting, car repair…
Intangible Services: Difficult to perceive or evaluate before use, for example, financial consulting, insurance services…

Service Selection

Choosing the right service is crucial to ensure effectiveness and satisfaction. Consider the following factors:

• Service Quality: Evaluate reputation, experience, and customer feedback.
• Pricing: Compare prices between different service providers.
• Availability: Service delivery time, convenient location.
• Guarantees: Warranty policies, insurance, or provider commitments.

Service Evaluation

After using the service, evaluation is necessary to improve service quality in the future. You can evaluate based on criteria such as professionalism, product quality, customer satisfaction…

Conclusion: Understanding the concept, classification, and selection of services will help you make the right decisions and receive the best service. Always research thoroughly and read reviews before using any service.