Background of the Study
Customer service quality is a critical determinant of competitive advantage in the banking sector, and Islamic banking is no exception. In a market where ethical values and customer trust are paramount, providing exemplary customer service is essential for sustaining loyalty and enhancing brand reputation (Rahim & Sultan, 2023). This study investigates the dimensions of customer service quality in Islamic banking, focusing on how service delivery, responsiveness, and personalized care contribute to customer satisfaction and retention. Over the past few years, advancements in technology and the integration of digital platforms have revolutionized the way banks interact with their customers, making it imperative to assess service quality in a rapidly evolving landscape (Naseer & Khan, 2024).
The background of the study reviews the evolution of customer service practices in Islamic banking, noting the shift from traditional, face-to-face interactions to a more diversified, omni-channel approach. This transformation is driven by increasing customer expectations, competitive pressures, and the need for enhanced operational efficiency. Islamic banks, which emphasize ethical and customer-centric values, are uniquely positioned to leverage high-quality customer service as a strategic differentiator (Rahim & Sultan, 2023). However, challenges persist, including inconsistent service delivery across channels, varying levels of staff competence, and technological integration issues.
The study further explores the role of customer feedback and digital analytics in shaping service quality. By examining recent trends and empirical data, this research aims to identify the key factors that drive customer satisfaction in Islamic banking. It also evaluates the impact of service quality on customer loyalty and overall financial performance, thereby offering a comprehensive understanding of the strategic importance of customer service in this niche market (Naseer & Khan, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the recognized importance of customer service quality, Islamic banks often encounter significant challenges in meeting the high expectations of their clientele. One primary issue is the inconsistency in service standards across various channels, which leads to discrepancies in customer experiences (Rahim & Sultan, 2023). The transition to digital platforms has further complicated this scenario, as banks struggle to integrate traditional service models with modern, technology-driven approaches. This inconsistency can result in diminished customer satisfaction and erosion of trust, ultimately affecting the banks’ competitive positioning.
Another problem is the lack of a standardized framework for measuring service quality within the Islamic banking context. The unique ethical and operational characteristics of Islamic banks require customized evaluation metrics that are often absent in current practice (Naseer & Khan, 2024). This gap not only hinders effective performance monitoring but also limits the ability to implement targeted improvements. Additionally, operational constraints such as inadequate training programs for frontline staff and limited investment in customer service technologies further exacerbate the issue. Consequently, the failure to deliver high-quality customer service undermines customer retention and loyalty, ultimately impacting financial performance.
This study seeks to identify the root causes of these service quality challenges and to develop strategic recommendations for enhancing customer satisfaction. By examining both qualitative and quantitative data, the research aims to provide a detailed analysis of the factors influencing customer service quality in Islamic banking, thereby offering actionable insights for industry practitioners.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on selected Islamic banks operating in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported customer satisfaction surveys and variations in service quality across different regions.
Definitions of Terms
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