Exploring the principle and competencies for phygital service inclusion

Purpose This study proposes the concept of phygital service inclusion, exploring its core principle and identifying the key competencies required for its implementation, particularly for individuals experiencing vulnerabilities. Design/methodology/approach This paper adopts the term “individuals experiencing vulnerabilities” to highlight the situational and dynamic nature of vulnerability, thereby avoiding the stigmatizing effect of labeling individuals as "vulnerable" and instead promoting a perspective that affirms dignity and resilience. In line with this framing, the study employs an abductive qualitative approach, engaging with Deaf communities in an emerging country as a salient case of individuals experiencing vulnerabilities. To explore cultural and social identity, a netnographic analysis was conducted on user-generated content from YouTube, analyzing 22 videos with a combined total of approximately 7.8 million views and 12,000 comments. In addition, semistructured interviews were conducted with Deaf individuals, complemented by passive observation at a community center that facilitates phygital interactions, providing deeper insights into their lived experiences. Findings This study conceptualizes phygital service inclusion as the intentional integration of physical and digital service elements to create experiences that are inclusive, accessible and equitable, particularly for individuals experiencing vulnerabilities. Central to this concept is the principle of “Physically Informed – Digitally Enhanced,” highlighting the importance of anchoring digital innovations in the physical realities of individuals experiencing vulnerabilities. Furthermore, this study identifies four key competencies for service professionals – ambicultural, interpersonal, advocacy and digital – that are essential for designing and implementing inclusive phygital service systems. Research limitations/implications The study centers on a particular group of individuals experiencing vulnerabilities, which, while offering valuable insights, represents only one dimension of a broader spectrum of such individuals. The methodological scope is further shaped by the reliance on YouTube as the sole source of secondary data and by the limited geographic reach of interviews, which were conducted in just two regions of the country. Originality/value This study advances the theoretical discourse on inclusive service systems by bridging physical and digital service elements. It offers actionable frameworks and insights for designing culturally sensitive and contextually adaptive phygital service ecosystems, with a particular focus on empowering individuals experiencing vulnerabilities.