ASSESSMENT ON THE AWARENESS OF THE SERVICE OFFERED FOR DIFFERENTLY ABLED CUSTOMERS OF KUYA J'S IN FAIRVIEW QUEZON CITY: BASIS FOR ENHANCEMENT

Abstract

A restaurant business should create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all customers, regardless of age, race, gender, or abilities, as outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). According to Pendrill (2020), providing exceptional hospitality ensures that guests of all abilities receive equal treatment, fostering customer loyalty and repeat visits. The more accessible a restaurant is, the broader its customer reach. Therefore, restaurant managers and owners must properly train their staff, enhance facilities, and adopt inclusive practices to accommodate every guest. Individuals with disabilities—whether physical, intellectual, or emotional—should be treated with the same fairness, respect, and quality of service as all other patrons. The research methodology employed in this study follows a structured and systematic approach to effectively address the identified issues. The following components outline the procedural aspects utilized in data collection, analysis, and interpretation:  Research Design – This study adopts a descriptive research design, which allows for a comprehensive assessment of the subject matter by systematically collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. This approach ensures a clear understanding of trends, behaviors, and relationships within the study.  Data Sources – The study relies on both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data was collected through surveys and interviews to gather firsthand insights from respondents, while secondary data from academic journals, industry reports, and relevant literature provided additional context and validation.  Sampling Techniques – A purposive sampling technique was utilized, selecting participants based on specific criteria aligned with the study's objectives. This method ensures that the sample comprises individuals with relevant knowledge and experience, enhancing the reliability of findings.  Research Instruments – The study employed structured questionnaires and interview guides tailored to the research objectives. The questionnaire included closed-ended, Likert-scale, and open-ended questions, allowing for both quantitative measurement and qualitative insights.  Data Collection Procedures – Surveys and interviews were conducted through online and face-to-face methods, ensuring broad accessibility and participant convenience. Stringent measures were applied to maintain data reliability, validity, and integrity throughout the collection process.  Data Analysis Procedures – The collected data underwent systematic classification, coding, and analysis. Quantitative responses were processed using statistical tools, while qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis, identifying recurring patterns and significant themes.  Statistical Treatment – To ensure accurate interpretation of results, the study applied descriptive statistics (frequency distribution, percentages, mean, and standard deviation) for trend analysis. Where applicable, inferential statistical methods such as correlation analysis, t-tests, or regression analysis were employed to establish relationships between variables and validate findings.  Ethical Considerations – The research adhered to strict ethical guidelines, ensuring confidentiality, anonymity, and informed consent from participants. Ethical approval was obtained, and all data collection activities complied with standard research protocols to safeguard respondents' rights and privacy.  By integrating these methodological components, the study ensures a robust and credible framework for analyzing data, drawing meaningful conclusions, and providing valuable recommendations for future research and practice. The data gathered on restaurant awareness and accommodations for differently-abled customers, particularly those with vision impairments, provides crucial insights into current practices and areas requiring enhancement. The findings reveal the extent to which restaurants prioritize accessibility, including staff training, service modifications, and adaptive facilities. By analyzing these insights, businesses can identify gaps and implement targeted improvements to foster a more inclusive dining environment. Strengthening accessibility measures not only enhances the customer experience for visually impaired individuals but also promotes compliance with accessibility standards and reinforces a restaurant’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The findings of this study provide a basis for recommendations aimed at improving restaurant preparedness and inclusivity. As societal norms continue to evolve, women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in various industries, including the restaurant sector. The high representation of female staff in restaurants may reflect these shifting gender dynamics in the workplace.  To enhance the dining experience for all patrons, staff training should prioritize accommodating individuals with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, and hearing impairments. Suggested improvements include optimizing restaurant layouts, incorporating accessible table designs, and implementing specialized customer service training. Additionally, ensuring accessibility for visually impaired customers remains a critical area for improvement in Quezon City’s restaurant industry.  Ongoing initiatives to increase staff awareness, upgrade infrastructure, and refine service strategies will help create a more inclusive and welcoming environment, ensuring that all customers, regardless of their abilities, receive equitable and high-quality service.