Journal of Smart Tourism

Smart Tourism Research Center, Kyung Hee University (경희대학교 스마트관광연구소)
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Opportunities and Challenges of Utilizing Service Robots in Tourism Industry: A Tool for Recovery from COVID-19 Pandemic

  • Omar Parvez, M. (Faculty of Tourism, Eastern Mediterranean University) ;
  • Cobanoglu, Cihan (Muma College of Business, University of South Florida)
  • Received : 2021.04.15
  • Accepted : 2021.08.26
  • Published : 2021.09.30
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Abstract

Technology and tourism have become inseparable, and technological innovations propose new services to the tourism industry. During the current pandemic, service robot usage has increased more than at any other time which comes with advantages and disadvantages. This paper discusses the opportunities and challenges of utilizing service robots in the service industry during and after the pandemic crisis. The study follows a content analysis methodology. Findings indicate that service robots are easy to access, offer an alternative form of communication, reduce costs and boost operational safety; in contrast, robotics increase unemployment and cause anxiety and depression among the demoralized employees.

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References

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