The potential for tourism and hospitality experience research in human-robot interactions

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to review recent work in the robotics literature and identify future opportunities for consumer/tourist experience research in human-robot interactions (HRIs). Design/methodology/approach: The paper begins by covering the framework of robotic agent presence and embodiment that are relevant for HRI. Next, the paper identifies future opportunities for hospitality and tourism scholars to undertake consumer/tourist experience research in HRIs. Findings: The result of this study provided potential directions for advancing theoretical, methodological and managerial implications for tourism experience research in HRI. Research limitations/implications: Concepts from robotics research are diffusing into a range of disciplines, from engineering to social sciences. These advancements open many unique, yet urgent, opportunities for hospitality and tourism research. Practical implications: This paper illustrates the speed at which robotics research is progressing. Moreover, the concepts reviewed in this research on robotic presence and embodiment are relevant for real-world applications in hospitality and tourism. Social implications: Developments in robotics research will transform hospitality and tourism experiences in the future. Originality/value: This research is one of the early papers in the field to review robotics research and provide innovative directions to broaden the interdisciplinary perspective for future hospitality and tourism research.