Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2009

The research entitled Virtual Network Center: Establishing Ergonomic Approach and Maximizing the Potential of the Internet Café as a Filipino Community Development Tool was primarily conducted not just to promote ergonomics in the planning and design processes of the Internet Café but also to maximize its potential as a Filipino community development tool with the goal of creating a safe, user-friendly, educational and family-oriented virtual network center. In line with this, the proponent wanted to know the critical points for the planning and design of this facility and the parameters that would redefine its use a community development tool. This research utilized quantitative and qualitative approach which included the anthropometric data, user preferences and built environment assessment. The anthropometric data of the respondents from the study areas was graphed and analyzed along with ergonomic principles to create the design guidelines for ergonomic workstations and spaces. The analysis of the other data gathered in this study determined the other essential components in maximizing the potential of the Internet café as a community development tool. Based on the data obtained from this study, the spatial and workstation configuration are considered critical points in the planning and design of virtual network centers. Their relationship creates the built working environment and directly affects the users and the task. The proponent recommends using the set of guidelines presented in this study to serve as a guide in the planning and design of virtual network centers.