This study examined the perceptions of the employees of the Connecticut Department of
Revenue Service (DRS) and taxpayers relative to the effects of a program referred to as
"Public Service Excellence" (PSE). The DRS implemented PSE in 1995 in response to
complaints that the agency was not providing quality service for the citizens of
Connecticut. This study was intended to determine the extent to which PSE was
perceived to be bringing improved service to the public. Two surveys were employed:
one for employees (N=187) and one for taxpayers (N=123). Findings indicated that
although there was overwhelming support for PSE by employees in some work divisions,
in other areas employees expressed disapproval of the program. However, three fourths of
the taxpayers surveyed indicated that they had experienced a higher level of satisfaction
from the dealings with DRS since implementation of PSE. The data controvert the belief
that customers can only be satisfied when employees themselves are completely satisfied.
The study contributes to understanding the relationships among service excellence
programs, employee job satisfaction, and customer satisfaction with service in a public
agency.
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