Where Problems and Policy Intersect: servers, problem encounters and targeted policy

Abstract

In an effort to broaden and design server intervention policies more efficiently, this research examines the work location where the greatest intersection between the point of policy intervention (licenced servers) and the problem (intoxicated customers) occurs. Given the historic policy focus on servers, this research examines perceptions of all licenced servers, rather than those employed in selected settings. A six-page questionnaire was mailed to a random probability sample of all licenced servers. The sample was drawn from an official list of all individually licenced servers in the State of Indiana, USA. Bivariate and regression analyses were conducted on the 938 responses received. The analyses indicated that licenced servers' perception of their frequency of encounters with intoxicated customers is highly variable, and dependent upon numerous work location variables. The most important variable was type of establishment, particularly nightclubs and hotel or motel bars. The results suggest the need for targeted policy-making efforts, such as differential licensing and training on the basis of establishment type, which would result in more effective use of scarce resources.