02/28/2025
By Danielle Fretwell

The Francis College of Engineering, Department of Industrial Engineering, invites you to attend a Doctoral Dissertation Proposal defense by Andrea Vivaldi on: "Ergonomic And Productivity Impacts of Different Monitor Configurations Under Varying"

Candidate Name: Andrea Vivaldi
Degree: Doctoral
Defense Date: Wednesday March 5, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Dandeneau Hall, Room 105

Committee:
Advisor: David Claudio, Ph.D., IE Program Director, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, UMass Lowell

Committee Members*
1. Daniel Kosmas, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, UMass Lowell
2. Maria Velazquez, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, UMass Lowell
3. Luisa Valentina Nino de Valladares, Ph.D., Assistant professor, Industrial and Systems Engineering, KSU

Brief Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote work, leading to an increased reliance on home-based workstations that often lack ergonomic optimization. Many remote workers adopted makeshift setups, contributing to postural strain and a higher risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Simultaneously, advancements in technology have popularized multi-monitor configurations, which, while enhancing productivity, may also introduce ergonomic challenges. Despite existing workstation guidelines, there is limited research on how different monitor configurations influence musculoskeletal strain, task performance, and cognitive workload. This study aims to investigate the ergonomic and productivity impacts of various monitor configurations—single, L-shaped, V-shaped, and ultrawide (UW) setups—under different mental workload conditions. By integrating electromyography (EMG) assessments, biomechanical analyses, and task performance metrics, this research will evaluate how workstation design interacts with cognitive demand to influence user posture, efficiency, and discomfort. A key objective is to determine whether high-stress conditions exacerbate ergonomic risks and to identify configurations that balance productivity and health. Findings from this study will provide evidence on optimal monitor arrangements for modern digital workspaces. The results will contribute to ergonomic best practices, inform updated workstation guidelines, and support the development of adaptive workstation solutions to mitigate MSD risks and enhance work efficiency in hybrid and remote work environments.