Agency Problems and Reputation in Expert Services: Evidence from Auto Repair

作者:Schneider Henry S*
来源:Journal of Industrial Economics, 2012, 60(3): 406-433.
DOI:10.1111/j.1467-6451.2012.00485.x

摘要

Using a field experiment involving undercover visits to auto repair garages with a test vehicle, I first examine how asymmetric information between mechanics and motorists over auto repair service quality affects outcomes. I then examine whether reputation mitigates these problems via a matched-pair treatment in which undercover researchers appeared as either one-time or repeat-business customers. The results indicate that under and overtreatment are widespread, and that reputation via a repeat business mechanism does not improve outcomes significantly.

  • 出版日期2012-9