• Journal of the East Asian Society of Dietary Life
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• v.20 no.2
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• pp.328-339
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• 2010

This study was conducted to develop a service quality measurement scale suitable for the fast food restaurant segment. After reviewing the relevant literature, it was decided that the current service quality measurement scales (SERVQUAL, SERVPERF, DINESERV) are not appropriate for the fast food restaurant segment. Based on Cronin & Taylor's (1994) argument, perceived service quality is a form of attitude that represents a long-term overall evaluation of the company. Therefore, this study selected SERVPERF items for the initial pool of service quality items. Through a systematic scale development process, the SERVPERF instrument was then refined and a new concise scale was produced. Specifically, a focus group discussion with a group of patrons who are very familiar with fast food restaurants was conducted and the new service quality measure was refined so that it would be more realistic and closely describe service operation in the fast food industry. Moreover, the data collected from 112 college students who visit fast food restaurants frequently were used to statistically evaluate each of the items again via EFA (Exploratory Factor Analysis) and three sub-dimensions were derived: (1) responsiveness, (2) tangibles, and (3) reliability. Additionally, the data collected from 179 fast food restaurant consumers was used to conduct CFA (Confirmatory Factor Analysis). During this process, the convergent validity, discriminant validity, and internal consistency were double-checked. Overall, the newly developed scale achieved validity and reliability on a theoretical and statistical basis. Possible interpretations and managerial implications are also suggested.