ACCA Performance Management (F5) Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of simultaneous service?

1. Online customer support

2. Buying groceries

3. Visiting an optician for immediate assessment and purchase

4. Attending a seminar

The correct answer is: Visiting an optician for immediate assessment and purchase

Simultaneous service refers to situations where the service is produced and consumed simultaneously, meaning that the customer participates in the delivery of the service while it is being provided. In the case of visiting an optician for immediate assessment and purchase, the customer is actively involved in receiving the service as the optician assesses their vision. At the same time, the customer may receive immediate feedback and subsequently decide to purchase corrective lenses or glasses on the spot. This interaction exemplifies simultaneous service, as the customer's involvement is essential to the provision of the service. Online customer support typically allows customers to engage without simultaneous interaction. Buying groceries, while involving customer presence, is more about selecting goods than direct service consumption. Attending a seminar does involve participation but is generally structured as an experience where the content is delivered separately from any immediate consumption of the service. Therefore, the assessment and purchasing process at an optician represents the essence of simultaneous service.