MANUAL FOR ARCHITECTURAL

THESIS WRITING

Prepared by:

Arch. CRESELDA M. ROLDAN, uap, Ph.D

Arch. ROWENA S. JARDIN, uap
July 2016

The architect should be equipped with knowledge of many branches of study and varied kinds
of learning, for it is by his judgement that all work done by the other arts is put to test. This
knowledge is the child of practice and theory.
Vitruvius
In Architectural thesis, the students examine the relationship between design and research. By
design we mean the generative production of figural schemas that lead to built forms.
Gloat & Wang

THESIS WRITING
Table of Contents
Contents
Acknowledgement
Dedication
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Boards
Appendices
CHAPTER I: The Problem and its Setting
Introduction
Research Locale
Theoretical Framework
Research Paradigm
Statement of the Problem
Architectural Thesis Goal/Objectives/Strategies
Assumptions
Significance of the Study
Scope and Limitations
Definition of Terms
CHAPTER II : Review of Related Literature and Studies
Related Literature
Related Studies
Case Studies
CHAPTER III : Research Methodology
Research Design
Data Gathering Procedure
Data processing

CHAPTER IV : Site Presentation and Analysis

Site Analysis
Background
Site Selection Criteria
Site Selection and Justification
Site Analysis
SWOT Analysis
Factors and Issues Relevant to the Site
CHAPTER V : Data Presentation and Analysis
Situational Analysis
Identification/Assessment of Needs
Restatement of the Problem
Recommendations
Viability Studies
Technical Viability and Environmental Impact Assessment
Behavioral Analysis
Legal Viability
Financial Viability
CHAPTER VI : Space Programming
Behavioral Analysis
Activity Flow Diagrams
Environment-Behavior Studies
Interrelationship Analysis
Qualitative Analysis
Quantitative Analysis
CHAPTER VI : Design Framework and Presentation of Design Solution
Philosophy
Goals & Objectives
Concepts
Parameters
REFERENCES
Books
Journals, Magazines
Internet Sources
APPENDICES

Permits
Letters
Codes/ Laws/ Policies
Certificate of Originality

CHAPTER I
The Problem and its Setting

Introduction
The introduction to a research paper can be the most challenging part of the paper to
write. Good Introduction will give the reader a clear idea of the direction you want your
architectural thesis to take. You cannot just go discussing anything you come across without
understanding how it relates to what you want to achieve in the end.
Here are some of the points you have to cover to make sure that you are writing your
Introduction properly:
1. Present the problems and concerns which brought you to choose to work on your
proposal. You should do this without using the word I and without presenting your proposal just
yet.
2. Inform your reader of the present conditions and the problems that you feel need to be
solved architecturally. These would include such aspects such as technical problems;
absence/incompatibility of present site, need for proper planning, need for recognition of
potentials, etc. Focus on relevant factors.
3. State the reason/s why it is necessary to conduct the study which will lead to your
solution.
4. Convince your reader that your project is worth your effort and the readers attention.

Research Locale
Describe the location and conditions of your study locale. You should do this in an
informative manner which is not too technical for readers with no background in architecture.
The research locale is being used as a source of basic data needed for design application.
Trace the historical background and present it clearly and coherently. Be careful about
delving too much on the historical context. Once you've connected the historical events with
present developments and the problem at hand, move on.

Theoretical Framework
A theoretical framework consists of concepts and, together with their definitions and
reference to relevant scholarly literature, existing theory that is used for your particular study.
The theoretical framework must demonstrate an understanding of theories and concepts that
are relevant to the topic of your research paper and that relate to the broader areas of
knowledge being considered.`

The theoretical framework is most often not something readily found within the literature.
You must review course readings and pertinent research studies for theories and analytic
models that are relevant to the research problem you are investigating. The selection of a theory
should depend on its appropriateness, ease of application, and explanatory power.
By virtue of its application nature, good theory in the social sciences is of value precisely
because it fulfills one primary purpose: to explain the meaning, nature, and challenges
associated with a phenomenon, often experienced but unexplained in the world in which we live,
so that we may use that knowledge and understanding to act in more informed and effective
ways.
Examine your thesis title and research problem. The research problem anchors your
entire study and forms the basis from which you construct your theoretical framework.
A theoretical framework is used to limit the scope of the relevant data by focusing
on specific variables and defining the specific viewpoint [framework] that the researcher will take
in analyzing and interpreting the data to be gathered. It also facilitates the understanding of
concepts and variables according to given definitions and builds new knowledge by validating or
challenging theoretical assumptions.

Explanatory Theory

Normative Theory

Design Polemical Theory

Plausible or scientifically acceptable

general principle or body of
principles offered to explain
phenomena,

A belief, policy or procedure

proposed or followed as the basis of
action, an ideal or hypothetical set
of facts, principles, or
circumstances.

Abstract thought; speculation

The analysis of a set of facts in their relation to one another.

The general or abstract principles of a body of facts, a science, or an art ( ex. Music theory )
A hypothesis assumed for the sake of argument or investigation): an approved assumption, conjecture; body of
theorems presenting a concise systematic view of a subject.

Groat and Wang (2001),, Sattrup, P. A. (2012), distinguish between three types of
theory: positive , normative and polemical.
Positive theories are descriptive, causal and explanatory theories that are able to predict
future behaviours of the systems they describe, developed from a disinterested position of the
researcher.
Normative theories describe value judgements related to a discipline of research,
possibly to identify desired lines of actions and decisions to assist policy makers or decision
takers in achieving identified often utilitarian goals.
Polemic theories of design are theories where the theorist is actively involved in
promoting a new set of values or a value system that changes the existing one. In polemical
theory the theorist is involved with the subject of study from a position of power.

Conceptual Framework
Refers to the researchers concept or ideas about his study. There should be a
conceptual or research paradigm consisting of Inputs, Process and Outputs of the study. The
paradigm must be explained by the researcher.

Input

Variables
to consider
in solving
the
problem

Process

Methodologi
es

Output

Design
Solution

Strategies

Statement of the Problem

This portion sets the direction of the research inquiry, it is verbalization of the question
which the study proposes to answer. This divides into the major / main problem and the minor /
sub-problems and may be stated declaratively or interrogatively.
The major problem is the whole focus, which is reflected in the title of the study. The
minor problems are the sub-divisions or the breakdown of the main variable into its
components. When the answers to the sub-problems are put together they answer the main
problem. There should be at least five specific questions in the Statement of the Problem.
If you have formulated them in the Introduction, you only need to repeat them in this
section. The specific needs that you have identified are supposed to make your project unique
from other studies. Let your reader know this by stating your problem in a simple, clear and
direct manner.

Architectural Thesis Goal/Objectives/Strategies

Goal
There is one very important word here and that is ARCHITECTURAL. You can
begin selling your project here by defining what kind of structure you want to see in the
translation of your study. A brief description of the outcome could also help so that a
conceivable image may be formed. Keep in mind that you are doing an architectural
thesis. Refrain from devising programs for the operations of your project.

Objectives
Objectives are more SPECIFIC targets which eventually leads to the attainment
of your architectural goal. You may want to group them by certain categories as
determined
by your goal, or arrange them according to importance. For time-specific
objectives, a chronological arrangement may be more advisable.
Strategies
Strategies are simply particular actions you have to do to achieve each specific
objective. Forget about architectural for a while and focus on research work. What
do you need to know, study, research on, survey, observe, estimate or program in order
to create a body of knowledge that will lead to meeting your objectives.
Groat and Wang identify seven research strategies:
1) Interpretative-Historical Research,
2) Qualitative Research,
3) Correlational Research,
4) Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Research,
5) Simulation and Modelling Research,
6) Logical Argumentation and
7) Case Studies and Combined Strategies.
It would, therefore, be more comprehensible if you follow the succeeding outline
in stating your thesis goals, objectives and strategies.
Assumptions
While the hypothesis are statements of expectations to be tested in the contemplated
research, assumptions are statements that need not be tested. They are accepted as facts
based on observations or based based on the existing literature. The assumption must be
stated when there is controversy on the acceptability of a theory/concepts/ a research method
or instrument, which the proposed research considers acceptable.
Architectural thesis, though a theoretical exercise which need no immediate application,
should however be as realistic and achievable as possible. Assumptions shall support your
study and shall give substance to your work. The assumption can be of great help when dealing
with programming and cost analysis. Further, it can bring your project into a more realistic and
achievable that will create a more formidable framework for the design.

Significance of the Study

This portion notes the contribution of the proposed study either to a body of scientific
knowledge , to practitioners in the area of research or to any other group which will benefit from
the results. It must answer why is it important for the study to be conducted? What benefits
could be derived from the study?

Scope and Limitations

Included in this portion are the boundaries like geographic, population, time and
variables to be discussed. If certain weaknesses / shortcomings of the study are perceived by
the researcher, these must be noted in this section.
It is very important that you state in the clearest manner possible the coverage of your
study and project. To do this, you must first ask yourself what you need to do and why you need
to do them. Once youve identified these you can again categorize or group them to gauge the
task better.
Limitations of the study contains statement of the constraints or limiting factors that
might affect your research, and therefore, the final output. Some examples would be budgetary
limits, unavailability or inaccessibility of data, and time constraints.
However, these limitations are determined only to keep your study at a realistic level and
in no way should be used as an excuse for personal shortcomings or blocks in the outcome of
the project.
Definition of Terms
This portion includes words or phrases which will be used in the research study for clearer
understanding of the readers. Oftentimes, the terms may be used operationally in the thesis, in this case,
there is no need to indicate the source. But in some cases, the terms can be taken from the dictionaries,
books or studies related to the research being undertaken, and in this case, the author and/or source of
the terms or phrase must be mentioned.
The term or phrase should be arranged alphabetically, and the definition must be in a complete
sentence. Each term must be in capital letter and in paragraph form.

The following are some guidelines in writing an effective definition of terms:

1. Only terms, words or phrases which have special or unique meanings in the study
are defined.
2. Terms should be defined operationally, that is, how they are used in your study.
3. You may develop your own definition from the characteristics of the term defined.
4. Definitions may be taken from valid sources. Encyclopedias, reference books,
magazines and newspapers are samples of these.
5. Acronyms should always be spelled out especially they are not commonly known or
if they were used for the first time.
6. Use simple words in defining your terms. It would be more complicated if you will not,
and therefore building another bulk of things to be defined.
7. Definitions should be as brief, clear and direct as possible.
Ex.
Architecture. It refers to the art, science and profession of planning, designing and
constructing buildings.

CHAPTER II
Review of Related Literature and Studies

This chapter includes applied researches as well as other researches not included in the
theoretical framework, but which have relation to the proposed study on the problem dimension.
An error to be avoided is the inclusion of studies which are exactly the same as the present
research study unless the methodology is unique and is being tested in a new venue.
The more you read the better RRL you will achieve.
There are several ways of organizing this chapter .But the most logical, and which is
applicable to all, is to organize it according to the variables. This makes it easier to note the
links, the similarities and the dissimilarities among the works cited and the proposed research.

Related Literature
This portion consists of books, documents , articles, etc which are closely related to the
present study. The name of the author , year of publication (APA format) and the ideas of each
author must be stated.
A good Review of Related Literature is both exhaustive, comprehensive and selective.
This portion is categorized into foreign and local.

Related Studies / Case studies

This includes ideas from the thesis of other researchers which have relations to the
present study. The name of the thesis writer or the author and the year it was written and the
ideas of each author must be stated. The selected studies must also be categorized into foreign
and local.

Synthesis
The similarities of the aforementioned theses with the present study will be stated.
Mention also the differences of the present study from those theses mentioned.

Some guidelines on citing related literature.

1. Materials must be as recent as possible. New learnings are discovered everyday. Your
piece of literature may be true and relevant today but not in the next months or years. It is not

that changes occurs that abrupt but developments may arise which may have altered the
theories presented on your researched literature.
2. Materials must be as objective and as unbiased as possible. You have to avoid
material which are obviously and extremely siding an organization, group or an individual figure,
whether political, religious or otherwise.
3. Materials may not be too few or too many. It is always best to know where and when
to stop. Maintain a balanced presentation of literature, just enough, not to overwhelm your
readers. In an undergraduate thesis, ten (10) pieces of literature for review is required.

CHAPTER III
Research Methodology

This portion deals with the design of the study particularly the research design and the
techniques to be used, how the subject will be chosen, how the rationale size will be
determined, the data gathering process and the data analysis scheme.
Research Design
The three basic research designs are:
a. Descriptive Research a research design wherein events are recorded, described,
interpreted, analyzed and compared.
b. Historical Research - a research design wherein past events are studied and
related to their cause and effect at present or in the future time.
c. Experimental Research a research design wherein the cause and effect relationship
of a treatment on a variable is determined. There are several experimental designs
to choose from.
In any research, it is not only important that you know what to do but more
essentially, how you will do it. The methods of research help you with this process. which
explains the step by step process of doing your study. You can choose from a number of
methods used in an architectural research (descriptive, historical, experimental or a
combination).
It is also recommended that you prepare a work plan or a synthesis of your plan
and how are you going to conduct the study.
Data Gathering Procedure
The research design must be presented in detail so that if replication is desired
for purposes of validation, it can be done. The steps in data collection ,must be followed
in using any of the following research methods, descriptive, historical or experimental.

Data processing
Susman( ) promotes a cyclical process of diagnosing, action planning. Action
taking, evaluating and specifying. His diagram of this cycle is reproduced in Figure --.
The cycle is descriptive of what the researcher has to go through in the design process

.
ACTION
PLANNING
Considering
alternative
courses of action
for solving a
problem

DIAGNOSING
Identifying or
delining a
problem

SPECIFYING
LEARNING
Identifying
general findings

ACTION TAKING
Selecting of a
course of action

EVALUATING
Studying the
consequences of
the action

CHAPTER IV
Site Presentation and Analysis

For this chapter, you will have to conduct several types of studies at several
levels to come up with the best site for your proposed project. The extent of what you will
discuss here will depend basically on how important and influential the choice of site is
to your project. Your focus should be on the appropriateness and feasibility of possible
sites to the intended use. To determine the viability of the site, a comprehensive
analyses of the characteristics of the site and its surrounding areas must be conducted
and indicate how these factors and attributes will affect the project.
Background
With a reliable knowledge and a goal for your project proposal, determine its
requisite site requirements and the possibility of having to seek for alternatives. The site
may be given, but that does not mean that you will have a lighter workload than if you
have to look for one. Acquaint your reader with the location, size and other physical
characteristics of the site.
Site Selection Criteria
In this section, you will have to discuss what features of a site -- both natural and
built -- are best-suited to the requirements. It is, therefore, a huge advantage if you can
coherently state the character of your project, the site attributes that it requires and why.
Consider the site selection criteria.
1. Be specific. Avoid vague statements such as big enough, should be accessible
2. Stick only to the criteria that are most relevant to your project.
3. Be realistic. Do not seek qualities that would be impossible to find.
Site Selection and Justification
You were lucky enough to find three possible sites for your project. Start by
pointing out their favorable and unfavorable aspects by briefly discussing each one. It
might also simplify the work if you can try to evaluate the sites merits using a rating
system (1- for severe limitation, 2 - moderate constraint, 3 - good condition, 4 - excellent
condition).
Then, select the most ideal one. This is the site that could meet the project
requirements with the least modifications. Try to see if the score in the rating system
validates your choice. The table on Figure 2 is a very effective tool in selecting the best
possible site for your proposal.

Site Analysis
For viable site analysis, two levels are being considered , the micro site analysis
and the macro analysis. Micro site analysis studies the specific area within the property
boundaries and its immediate environs; and the macro site analysis which includes the
examination of the site environs up to the horizon. In this analysis, the condition and
availability of various factors such as utilities, natural elements, climate, infrastructure
and sensuous characters are presented.
It is sometimes very tempting to limit the discussion of the effects to the most
obvious and conspicuous. But since an extensive analysis should be involved, it is
possible to consider how each factor influences the project in different levels.

SWOT Analysis
A tabulated SWOT analysis (defining its STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES,
OPPORTUNITIES and THREATS in relation to the project) may be the best visual
guide for the analysis. It can give the reader an idea of how suitable the site to the
project
with just one look. It will also enable you to relate these aspects to each other so
that you
can have a clear idea of your sites potentials as well as its imperfections
Baseline Studies

the

Baselines are starting points from which the design proper takes off. Baseline
information can be the bases for formulating the parameters by which the outcomes of
research can be evaluated.
1. Maps
Base Maps
Municipal or General Base Map
Poblacion or Urban Base Map
Base Maps for other Built-up Areas Vicinity Map

Thematic or Analytical Maps

Contour Map
Soil Map
Slope Map
Land Capability Map
Soil Suitability for Agricultural Uses
Soil Suitability for Urban Uses
Hydro-geologic or Groundwater Map
Facilities/ Infrastructures Map
Development
Constraints
Map (geologic, fault, flooding, etc.)
Special
Projects
Map
Weather Map

2. Existing Standards
Quality Standards
Governing benchmarks that regulate the physical make-up of
industry outputs. These are often measured by getting feedbacks from users or
consumers
Performance Standards

speed, rate,

These are standards that regulate operations or ways of doing things.

These are often quantified and measured in terms of units such as
efficiency, etc.

Factors and Issues Relevant to the Site

the

These are factors and considerations will be relevant to your project. Consider
local, regional, national, as well as international laws, codes and policies that may affect
the project. These factors will help `define the limits of your development. Aside from
these, you also have to identify and study other factors that are not based on the law.
These would include phenomena which are natural to your site (flooding, strong coastal
winds, etc.), local ordinances, local customs and community characteristics. State how
all these will affect the site.

CRITERIA
REGIONAL

Climate (temperature, storms, rainfall, etc.)

Soils (stability, fertility, depth)
Water supply and quality Economy (rising, stable,
declining)
Transportation (highways and transit) Energy
(availability and relative cost)
Landscape character
Cultural opportunities
Employment opportunities
Health care facilities
Major detractions (list and describe)
Exceptional features (list and describe)

COMMUNITY

II

Travel (time-distance to work, shopping, etc.)

Travel experience (pleasant or unpleasant)
Community ambience
Schools
Shopping
Churches
Cultural opportunities (library, auditorium)
Public services (fire, police, etc.)
Safety and security Medical facilities
Governance
Taxes Major detraction (list and describe) Exceptional
features (list and descried)

NEIGHBORHOOD

III

Landscape character
Lifestyle
Compatibility of proposed uses
Trafficways (access, hazard, attractiveness)
Schools Conveniences (schools, service, etc.)
Parks, recreation and open space
Exposure (sun, wind, storms, planning)
Freedom from noise, fumes, etc.
Utilities (availability and cost)
Major detraction (list and describe)
Exceptional features (list and descried)

PROPERTY
Size and shape (suitability)
Aspect from approaches
Safe entrance and egress
On-site feel
Permanent trees and cover
Need for clearing
Ground forms and gradients
Soils (quality and depth)
Relative cost of earthwork and foundation
Site drainage
Adjacent structures (or lack of)

Site 1

Site 2

Site 3

From Landscape Architecture: A Manual for Site Planning and Design By John Ormsbee Simonds New
York: McGraw Hill, 1998

LEGEND
1 severe limitation 2 moderate constraint 3 condition good

4 condition excellent

CHECKLIST OF SITE DATA

From Site Planning by Kevin Lynch M.I.T. Press, Massachusetts. 1979
a. Initial Personal Reconnaissance observation of the sites apparent character,
problem and possibilities presented through notes, sketches, photographs, etc.
b. Collation Of Existing Data such as contour maps, aerial photos, geological soil and water
surveys, climate records, ecological studies, engineering reports, boring tests,
census
materials, histories, social studies, market reports, traffic studies, legal and public control
documents, official proposals, records and current controversies
c. Summary Description of the Off-Site Context And Its Changes geographic
location, surrounding populations, social and political structure, general economy,
ecological and hydrographic system, land use patterns, access system, principal off-site
destinations and facilities

d. Data on the Site and its Immediate Context

A. Physical Data
1. Geology and soil
Underlying geology, rock character and depth
Soil type and depth, value as engineering material and as plant
medium
Fill, ledge, slide and subsidence
2. Water

depressions

Existing water bodies - variation and purity

Natural and man-made drainage channels - flow, capacity, purity
Surface drainage patterns, amounts, blockages, undrained
Water table - elevation and fluctuation, springs
Water supply - quantity and quality

3. Topography
Pattern of landforms
Contours
Slope analysis
Visibility analysis

 Circulation analysis
Unique features
4. Climate
Regional data on variation of temperature, precipitation, humidity, solar
angle,
cloudiness, wind direction and force
Local microclimates: warm and cool slopes, air drainage, wind
deflection and l
local breeze, shade, heat reflection and storage,
plant indicators
Sound level, atmospheric quality, smells
5. Ecology
Dominant plant/animal communities - location and relative stability
Their dependence on existing factors, self-regulation, sensitivity
to change
Mapping of general plant cover, including wooded areas
Specimen trees to be retained: their location, spread,
species and elevation at
base
6. Man-made structures
Existing buildings: outline, location, floor elevations, type, condition, use
Circulation facilities (roads, paths, rails, transit, etc.): location,
capacity,condition
Utilities (storm and sanitary sewers, water, gas, electricity,
telephone, steam,
etc.): location, elevation, capacity
8. Sensuous Qualities
Character and relation of visual spaces
Viewpoints, vistas and visual focal points
Character and rhythm of visual sequences
Quality and variation of light, sound, smell and feel
B. Cultural Data
1. Resident and using population
Number and composition
Social structures and institution
Economic structure
Political structure
Current changes and problems
2. On-site and adjacent behavior settings:
nature, location, rhythm, stability, participants, conflicts
3. Site values, rights and restraints
Ownerships, easements, and other rights
Legal controls: zoning and other regulations
Economic values Accepted territories
Political jurisdictions
4. Past and future
Site history and its traces
Public and private intentions for future use of site, conflicts

5. Images
Group and individual identification and organization of site
Meanings attached to the site, symbolic expression
Hopes, fears, wishes, preferences
C. Data Correlation
1. Classification of site by areas of similar structure, quality, and problems
2. Identification of key points, lines and areas
3. Analysis of current and likely future changes - the dynamic aspect of the site
4. Identification of significant problems and possibilities

CHAPTER V
Data Presentation and Analysis

Data Management
Presentation of data involves organization. To give you a clearer picture, you may do
the following suggestions:
1. Segregate the facts from the concepts. Factual data are those information based on
what is existing, something which is of truth and reality. Conceptual data may be
written ideas which you could use as basis for your study. It is necessary to know this
so as you would determine which data can be processed and what are not.
2. Recognize what data to present. Dont be tempted to present several bits of
information or a huge number of knowledge about the topic. Analyze the articles,
tables, etc. and their relevance to your thesis.
3. Organize the data. It would be necessary to have proper sequencing of the data you
will be presenting. Sequencing would mean developing the data presentation from

the simplest to the most complex ideas. It would also help to relate sub-topics so that
the links would be establish between them and later be connected to the main topic.
The following is a detailed discussion of the types of data to be presented and the
manner it should be presented:
A. Present Condition
It is inevitable to come up with basic data about the proposal. These come in
statistical form. This is as simple as showing factual data to your readers, whether in
textual, tabular or graphical form.
Statistical data comes from the agency concerned.
a. Demographic Data
Present and Projected Population
Population Distribution by:
Age,
Sex,
Religion,
Educational Attainment,
Employment,
Income
Urban-Rural Population Distribution
Population Density
Growth Trends
Literacy Rate
Household Size
Number of Dwelling Units by:
Type of Construction Materials,
Structure
Ownership
b. Physical Data
Macro-Site Data
Political Boundaries
Area and Land Uses
Climate
Adjoining Areas and Uses
Access
Micro Site Data
Boundaries
Area Land Use
Topography/ Landform
Water Bodies and Quality
Orientation in relation to solar paths and wind paths
Vegetation
Flora and Fauna
Visual Resources
Existing Structures

c. Sectoral Data
General Public Services
This covers the administrative systems of the municipality, e.g.,
organizational structure, policy development and information management. This
also includes the local governments financial and fiscal administration.
Social Services
This encompasses education, culture, sports and manpower
development; health and sanitation, nutrition and population policies; housing
and community development; social welfare, protective services and recreational
facilities of the municipality.
Economic Services
This covers agriculture, trade and industry, tourism, labor and
employment; existing and projected uses of and demand for land; projected
income and employment opportunities; direction and pattern of growth of
agriculture and industry.
Physical Infrastructure
This includes the inventory of roads, transportation, communication,
sewage and drainage, power, telecommunication, drinking water, solid waste
disposal, transport terminal, traffic management.

Industry Profile
This consists of pieces of information relative to particular industries or
aspects of the economy. Following are some examples of industries that need to
be studied relative to a number of thesis topics.
Industries/ Thesis Topics
The housing industry Subdivision development
Community development
Housing components and materials
The retail sales industry
Commercial development
The health care industry
Pharmaceutical Facilities
Hospital Complex
The transport industry
Sea Port development
Multi-modal facilities
The manufacturing industry
Industrial development
Production Centers

The food industry

Food processing plants
The tourism industry
Historic town renewal plans
The telecommunication Industry
Information Technology Centers
Some of the basic data that make up the industry profile are the following:
Current Standards of Operation
Accomplishments and Shortfalls vis--vis industry targets

Administrative/Organizational, Technical/Technological, Problems

Outlooks or envisioned future business environments

Players and Leaders in the Industry

Competition
and Competitive Advantages
Opportunities for
Improvement
B. Primary Data
Primary data come from original sources. They are not commentary about the topic, but
rather consists of information that must be commented upon by succeeding topics.

Tactics that may be used to gather Primary Data include :

Tactics
Interviews

interviews,
listening (to symposia, lectures),
focus groups,
surveys and
observations (participatory, nonparcipatory).
Interactive
In-depth interviews
Key informants interview
Career histories

Listening
Focus Groups

Surveys
Observation

Non-interactive

Symposia
Lectures
Discussions guided to test
in small groups
Participants help construct
the right questions
Multiple sorting
Projective surveys
Participant observation

Non-participant observation
stream of behavior
Chronicles

 Field notes
Visual mapping

C.,Tables and Graphs

This chapter may contain most of the figures but you are free to present some
whenever the need in certain discussions arises. Architects use graphs and illustrations
as the most effective tools in expressing thoughts.
A statistical table or simply table is defined as a systematic arrangement of
related data in which classes of numerical facts or data are given each a row and their
subclasses are given each a column in order to present the relationships of the sets or
numerical facts or data in a definite, compact and understandable form or forms.
A graph on the other hand, is a chart representing the quantitative variations or
changes of a variable itself, or quantitative changes of a variable in comparison with
those of another variable or variables in pictorial or diagrammatic form.
There are some advantages of using a graph over a table. These are:
1. It attracts attention more effectively than tables, and, therefore is less likely to be
overlooked. Your readers may skip tables but pause to look at charts.
2. The use of colors and pictorial diagrams make a list of figures in thesis reports more .
meaningful
3. It gives a comprehensive view of quantitative data. A moving line exerts a more
powerful effect in the readers mind than the tabulated data. It shows what is happening
and what is likely to take place.
4. Its general usefulness lies in the simplicity it adds to the presentation of the numerical
data.
But graphs have disadvantages as well as advantages. They are;

generally inaccurate, incomplete, more expensive and time consuming.

graphs be made only through the data that have been tabulated.

Listed below are the varied types of graphs you may encounter:
1. Bar graphs
a. Single vertical bar graph
b. Single horizontal bar graph
c. Grouped or multiple or composite bar graph
d. Duo-directional or bilateral bar graph
e. Subdivided or component bar graph
f. Histogram
2. Linear graphs

a. Time series or chronological line chart

b. Composite line chart
c. Frequency polygon
d. Ogives
e. Band chart
3. Hundred percent graphs or charts
a. Subdivided bar or rectangular bar graph
b. Circle or pie chart
4. Pictograms
5. Statistical maps
6. Ratio charts
Tables and graphs can be done by using the data the researcher gathered from
sources. The researcher can process the tables, graphs and chart, and show these to
readers for easy understanding

B. Case Studies
This portion is actually an extension of the Research Data. Case Studies are the
existing related structures, groups, localities and situations. There are information that
are not available in textbooks or previous studies. This is especially true for local cases
that may have some connection with your project. Focus on the variable that are difficult
to determine without actual reconnaissance.
Do not forget that you are the one who has the best understanding of your
project and what information you need from the case studies. That simply means that it
is also you, who can conduct the studies most effectively.
Foreign and local studies are required so that it would be easier to determine the
applicability and feasibility of foreign concepts in local settings.
Each case study can be presented by first explaining how they are related to
your project. You can discuss the situation by dividing it into sub components and
presenting their respective merits. If you think that sketches, maps, graphs and
photographs would help you explain them better, then use them to support your data.
Provide proper captions and make sure that all the specific concerns are
discussed properly, and the elevance to the project are stated clearly.
It is also
advisable to choose cases that are related to your thesis in distinctly varied ways. One
case study may be concerned with a project similar to your proposal and another which
employs a technology which is comparable to what you are proposing. You might also be
able to draw more reliable conclusions by studying both local and foreign cases.
Three topics for study would be ideal but not limited-- a study of similar user
groups, a study of a case similar to the project (local and foreign), and a study of the
current trend/s (local and foreign) pertinent to the project. It might also be useful to
include a failed case that used the same technique or was intended for the same user

group. Even failed cases are helpful in your research as they give a fairly good idea of
what not to do.
Summary and Recommendations
This is where to correlate and summarize all the factors that have been studied
to see their implications to the project. End this portion by recommending and endorsing
concepts and approaches learned from the case studies according to their suitability to
the project

Situational Analysis
a. Identification/Assessment of Needs
This portion examines the information that you have presented in the
previous chapters and come up with those that can serve as a basis for further
developments. With the theoretical foundation that youve laid out in Chapter 1
and the factual components that youve presented in Chapter 2, analyze what
really needs to be done through architectural solutions. Although the root may be
social, psychological, physiological, etc., the expressed needs and requirements
are architectural.
b. Restatement of the Problem
Reread and restate the Statement of the Problem which are now based
on the facts. This time, they should anchor the thoughts to the site. The
situation can be viewed with the problem in a new perspective.

c. Recommendations
. This may be a statement of what structure to be concluded that is
necessary to solve the problem. If there are concepts and theories that need to
be studied and discussed further so that you could arrive at the most effective
design solutions, you have to present them along with your recommendations.
Same goes if you think that there is a new design approach which has to be
developed and used for the proposal

Behavioral Analysis
1. Activity Flow Diagram
As the project will cater mainly to its users, it might be useful to look into
their patterns of activities as these would help determine the characteristics of
spaces which will be provided for them. The pattern of activity will also create a
basis for the interrelationships of spaces and, consequently, structures.
For
some projects, the activity flow diagram may be governed by a given schedule.

This is true for schools, for example, where the activities of the users as based
on the scheduling of classes. For others, the pattern may have to be determined
through direct observation, interviews or any first-hand procedure. It is also
important to note the less obvious details in the pattern aside from those which
are based on a given program or are easily discernible through observation.
2. Environment-Behavior Studies
Should the thesis have the behavior of the users as its main thrust, you
should expand this part and have a thorough and in depth output. You may not
only be dealing with the activities of the users for the time being but would most
probably extend your analysis to the culture of these people. Moreover, this
would entail a comparative analysis of your users behavior with that of other
paradigms.
Again, this is an analysis and so you would not just list the activities.
Apart from identifying the activities and behavior of your users, whether individual
or group, you are to give your readers a hint of why youre discussing these
things. How will these affect the overall concept of your thesis? In what way can
these behaviors be a tool in designing an effective working environment? Do you
need to apply your knowledge in space engineering?
The concepts of territoriality, defensible space and space bubbles are
very helpful tools in analyzing the behavior of people in relation to the
environment. In the end, this procedure will help you understand how the
environment shapes behavior and vice-versa.
3. Interrelationship Analysis
This is the simplest part of space programming-- but not quite. If you
think that doing matrices and bubble diagrams would be too easy for you to do,
well unfortunately, theyre not. Although such graphical instruments help facilitate
the organization of spaces, they may be too flexible, and so youll have the
tendency to overlook at the appropriate circulation. To avoid this, it is
recommended that you have to go further and create alternative schemes or
bubbles (variations of your design) and even zoning (based on the result of
matrices) with circulation diagrams of various types of users.
The results of your case studies would probably be applied here. Again,
you are encouraged to draw various schemes to present probable solutions- and
it will not stop there. You have to orient your readers of the variances and
indicate the advantages and disadvantages of each scheme so that you would
not have the difficulty of explaining the design of your choice when later on tested
against the concepts. Remember to include the services and utilities.
There are different methods in programming spaces. It can be a matrix
which allocates specific variable depending on the activity e.g. pivotal and then
coming up with the area. You may also use basic standards from the National
Building Code or other building standards and multiply these with the number of
users. Another way is to layout a scheme containing the furniture, spaces, and

circulation (of course in scale). This may be most helpful for rooms requiring
specific furniture as in hospitals, laboratories, factories and the like.
Viability Studies
Viability studies are undertaken to ascertain the possibility of the project
getting implemented. They are used to determine probable impediments to
project realization and to identify measures by which these impediments may be
minimized or eliminated.
a. Technical Viability & Environmental Impact Assessment
The Technical Design Constraints - All designers must work within a set of
parameters based on the following:
Technology
The project must be realizable based on the available systems,
infrastructure and know-how. Production, replication, testing must be possible
within the existing framework of expertise and tools by which the processes can
be carried out. Propositions must be grounded on theories that are sufficiently
backed up by past research undertakings.
Its also possible that the proposed project is illustrative of new
technology. In this case, the research output must include recommendations on
the development of the proposed technology.
Cost
Project Cost - these are expenses that are directly attributable to the
completion of the project. Examples are: design development cost, construction/
development/ production cost
Capital - this covers all initial, one-time expenditures. Examples are:
construction of production plants, equipment purchase, land acquisition
Operating - regular/periodic expenses such as utility bills, salaries for
personnel, rentals Maintenance - periodic or one-time expenses for repairs and
facilities upgrading
Time
Timeframe - a schedule showing how the project will progress over a
projected duration must be shown. Schedules may be in the form of a bar chart,
an S-curve or a PERT-CPM diagram
Phasing - project completion may be done in phases or in distinct time
frames
Gestation - a lead-time or preparatory period may be needed before a
project can fully take-off
Resource Requirements

Materials - the types, sources and availability of needed building or

product components need to be firmed up
Manpower - the labor component, required expertise, organizational
requirements also need to be identified Equipment - pieces of light and heavy
equipment needed for the production and operating stages must be available
Site Conditions
Location/ Surrounding Areas Land Area and Configuration Access
Climate Landforms Topography Geology Soil Type Water Bodies Hydrology
Oceanography Vegetation Atmosphere/Air quality Fish and Wildlife Visual
Resources Danger/ Hazard prone areas Existing Structures Infrastructure
Utilities Water Power Drainage Communication
Environmental Impact Assessment- An EIA is undertaken to compare
scenarios with and without the proposed project. The results are used to weigh
favorable against unfavorable impacts of the project on the environment. The
word environment here refers to both the physical and non-physical dimensions.
The physical dimensions cover ecological and technological concerns while the
nonphysical dimensions cover the social, cultural, economic and political
concerns.

b. Legal Viability
Projects must be developed and implemented within the existing legal
framework that is defined by the following:
Design Laws, Codes, Guidelines

the National Building Code,

the Referral Codes,
Batas Pambansa 220,
Batas Pambansa 344,
Condominium Act,
ICOMOS,
Presidential Decree 957

Patent Laws/ Intellectual Property Rights there are procedures for

claiming ownership over intellectual properties in the form of creative work,
inventions, models and paradigms
Accreditation there are also procedures for recognition prior to entry into
the target market. For example the AITECH (Accreditation of Innovative
Technology) is a task force that screens, evaluates8 and approves new
technology for housing
Other Laws - other laws that can directly or indirectly affect the project
outcome are the Civil Code, laws that cover national defense, trading, taxation,
etc.

Another legal concern has to do with the entities or personalities that will
be tapped to develop and implement the proposed project.
Institutional Arrangements- the type and level of networking required to
effect project completion need to be identified
Concerned Agencies- the particular public or private organizations and
their roles in the network should also be clarified
It would also be possible that the project is illustrative of the need to
modify certain aspects within the existing legal framework. In this case the
research output must include recommendations on how these modifications can
be systematically effected.

c. Financial Viability
Sources of Funds
Funds, for various project types, come basically from either public or
private sources. Investments of any form and origin need to be recovered and in
most cases with an acceptable level of profit. Recovery of investments could be
through any of the following:
Sales
These are the proceeds from the outright disposal of completed products
or its independent components. Selling price is determined by market forces and
by the prevailing ratio between supply and demand. The final price that is passed
on to the buyer/consumer should cover the cost of production and the mark-up.
User Charges/ Rentals
This strategy attempts to extract the amount required to finance services
from those who benefit from their existence. Under perfect conditions, i.e., when
the benefits are acknowledged by the beneficiaries, as allocated, then user
charges must show a direct linked between the quantity of services and the
revenues generated to finance their services.
Shared Taxation
A tax is a compulsory contribution to government without reference to a
particular benefit received by the taxpayer. Subsidy from general taxation occurs
when there is some degree of general benefit, or where consumers cannot afford
the full cost of a service that is regarded as essential to human welfare.
Funding Terms
Borrowings/Loans
Large capital investments are usually financed by loans that are granted
based on specific lending terms. These terms specify repayment period, mode

of payment, interest rates and provisions for penalties. The total amount of loan
is distributed over its life and, therefore, to successive beneficiaries.
Grants
This form of assistance is usually given for pre-identified projects, i.e.,
conditions for use are normally stipulated. Full cost-recovery is not always
expected out of projects that are financed through grants.
Financial Benchmarks
Profitability
The assessment of profitability is begins with the computation of the net
income, which basically is equal to Total Revenues less Total Cost. The bottom
line figure is then used to compute for the following profitability ratios :

Return on Investment (ROI) = (Net Income / Total Investment)

Project Life
Profit Margin (PM)

= Net Income

/ Total Sales

Gross Profit Ratio (GPR)

= Gross Profit / Total Sales

CHAPTER VI
Space Programming

This is the most important part of the thesis where you have to come up with the
possible areas for your project as a concrete solution to the problem.. It would be difficult
to understand and appreciate what youll write here if you dont give your readers a
background of your project, its purpose, and users. In addition, since the discussion to
follow will delve on the administrative structure of the proponent, then it would be helpful
to explain what this organization does. The organizational chart could be your best tool
in doing this.
Space programming is an exercise for the student to concretize the abstractions
of space relationships into units of measure as well as the flow or circulation. It is the
consolidation of all the requirements, standards, rules and regulations. Requirements

would mean the needs of the project (users and systems) in terms of 3-dimensional
spaces, facilities, spatial relationships, etc.
These may be guided by legal standards or conditions informally set by the unit
of analysis as dictated by the needs. Rules and regulations are the legal guidelines that
must be followed in the course of the design. The main end of this exercise is to have a
systematic presentation of all these requirements to later on be translated in into
schemes and plans. For the purpose of the thesis, stick to the minimum requirements is
required. However, should the project need to provide areas for expansion, let this be
stated and taken into account.
a. Behavioral Analysis
As your thesis will cater to its users, more than anyone else, it is but rightful to
take a look into their activities as well as their operations if they move in an
organization.. In this part, you will enumerate the main units and how they relate to each
other. This will give you and your readers an idea how a certain unit works and
interrelate with each other. In doing so, you will find yourself identifying which units are
active, thus requiring an active space, and which are not. You have to indicate the
magnitude and level of sensitivity of service to adequately and effectively provide a
space for them, afterwards. Analyzing the schedule of the activities would also be
helpful.
Should your thesis focus on the behavior of the users as its main thrust, you
should expand this part and have a thorough and in depth output. You may not only be
dealing with the activities of the users for the time being but would most probably extend
your analysis to the culture of these people. Moreover, this would entail a comparative
analysis of your users behavior with that of other paradigms.
Again, this is an analysis and would not just list the activities. Apart from
identifying the activities and behavior of your users, whether individual or group, you are
to give your readers a hint of why youre discussing these things. How will these affect
the overall concept of your thesis? In what way can these behaviors be a tool in
designing an effective working environment? Do you need to apply your knowledge in
space engineering?
b. Interrelationship Analysis
This is the simplest part of space programming. Although such graphical
instruments help facilitate the organization of spaces, they may be too flexible and have
the tendency to overlook at the appropriate circulation. To avoid this, it is recommended
that you have to go further and create alternative schemes or bubbles (variations of your
design) and even zoning (based on the result of matrices) with circulation diagrams of
various types of users. The results of your case studies would probably be applied here.
Again, you are encouraged to draw various schemes to present probable
solutions- and it will not stop there. You have to orient your readers of the variances and
indicate the advantages and disadvantages of each scheme so that you would not have
the difficulty of explaining the design of your choice when later on tested against the
concepts. Remember to include the services and utilities.

There are different methods in programming spaces. It can be a matrix which

allocates specific variable depending on the activity e.g. pivotal and then coming up with
the area. You may also use basic standards from the National Building Code or other
building standards and multiply these with the number of users. Another way is to layout
a scheme containing the furniture, spaces and circulation (of course in scale). This may
be most helpful for rooms requiring specific furniture as in hospitals, laboratories,
factories and the like.
C. Qualitative Analysis
This has been proven as one of the most effective way of programming spaces.
It is a two-fold analysis, which initially caters to the qualities of the project, and later on
translated to be a quantitative one.
Qualitative analysis, as the term suggests is an analysis pertinent to the Qualities
of your proposal which will inevitably become bases for the design. This would have to
do with five major concerns namely:
(1) Establishing Goals,
(2) Collecting and Analyzing Facts,
(3) Uncovering and Testing Concepts,
(4) Determining Needs and
(5) Stating the Problems.
All these concerns will have to be interacted with four (4) considerations:
1)
2)
3)
4)

Function,
Form,
Economy, and
Time.

Notice that this programming method includes the basic steps in design
or what you familiarly know as design process. \\ You will have to use the
objectives in chapter 1 (goals), the data (facts) you have gathered in chapter 2,
and the proposed ideas (concepts) you have in the next chapter to do this.
Like the interrelationship analysis, this analysis also comes in matrix form.
Therefore, it can be interchanged so as to fit the desired program
D. Quantitative Analysis
Like any other data, a qualitative input would have to be translated into a
more perceptible program to be understood and later be translated into a plan.
This is what a quantitative analysis does. It translates the qualitative matrix you
did to a more tangible thing.
While the qualitative speaks of the abstract, the quantitative talks of the
more realizable output- something which can be grasped by the readers at once.
You may ask: why then cant you go directly with the quantitative? The answer

is simple. Because all the inputs in this section will be taken from the Qualitative
analysis. Remember, you will only translate on a quantitative evaluation.
In quantitative analysis, enumerating the areas is needed by your
proposal (again, based on the qualitative analysis). These are general areas
which can be specifically named in various terms, depending upon the function it
will perform. This way, you can generalize the function of the space you are
providing. But you have to identify all these rooms as well since you will be
determining the required number in the end.
Quantitative analysis involves quantities, figures, numbers, numerals and
therefore computations. This contains the mathematical computations for your
project. From the most basic computation of space areas to construction costs,
operation costs, life cycle costs, maintenance costs, etc. perhaps, you could also
deal with the analysis of the costing and return of investment through concepts
on funding and its possible revenue schemes.

CHAPTER VII
Design Framework and Presentation of Design Solution

This is the phase where to summarize all that has been done in the book. This
chapter will be the link to translation for design solution and has the basic contents of
your concept board.
A. Design Philosophy
The theories and the concepts for the proposal have been established, but it
wouldnt be enough to just have them and let loose of the unifying thing in work.

Philosophies are the bases of your ideas for the proposal, a guiding dictum which gels
your proposed work into one, single composition. There are two types of philosophy;
1) Theories coming from a person, living or not, who may have studied the
same topics youre dealing with and defined ideas appropriate for your study.
2) Own notions for the project. As researcher you are able to conceive your
own thoughts. You may be tempted to use philosophies you already have
used for your design plates when you were in your lower years but see to it
that it would be applicable for your project youre doing.
Philosophies are not fixed. On the contrary, they should be FLEXIBLE. Meaning,
they must bend to where they should go and reflect the design you would like to have for
your project, and vice versa. Dictums of well-known architects (refer to your Theory of
Architectural Design 02) will be a great deal of help for you in doing this part of your
thesis.
b. Design Goals and Objectives
You are not going back to Chapter 1 and rewrite the objectives and goals you
have written there, though this may be your take-off point. You could base your design
objectives from the objectives of your thesis. But take note that these are design goals
and objectives different from the goals and objectives of your study. The things youll
present here are the ones relative to your probable design.
What do you wish to do with your structures? How would you like the systems to
go? What would you like to achieve at the end of your translation? Hey, wait! These do
not only pertain to the possible appearance of the structures but the overall objectives of
the design as well. In other words, these are more FOCUSED on the DESIGN aspects
of your project. See, perhaps you now realize that there REALLY IS a difference after all.

c. Design Concepts
Concepts are thoughts concerning the way several elements or characteristics
can be combined into a single thing. In architecture, a concept also identifies how
various aspects of the requirements for a building can be brought together in a specific
thought that directly influences the design and its configuration. This only means that the
concepts you will be providing will somehow wrap up the totality of your design program.
Do you still remember the discussion in the framework? While that framework will be
your thrust, the design concepts will be the backbone of the architectural design. And
they should go hand in hand to effectively work together the framework and the
concepts.
Basically there are five (5) types of concepts in architecture.
1. Analogy (looking at other things)

Here you identify possible, literal relationships between things. You tend to look
for a desirable characteristic of an object and make this as the model for your
project.
2. Metaphors and Simile
This type of concept also identifies relationships between things. However, the
relationships are abstract rather than literal. You may have to establish certain
patterns of parallel relationships.
3. Essences
The whole program that you have for your thesis, complicated as it is, is
explained in terms of terse, explicit statements. It has to connote insights, meaning,
and your personal accounts for the project. Most of the time, this comes with a
conceptual scenario- a short essay that tie together all the important factors and
ideas that influenced the design solution. It may also be something which discovers
the roots of the issues.
4. Programmatic
This is what you have been doing all the while in your lower design subjects,
where you write the problems, come up with the objectives, state your philosophies
and come up with a concept at the end. In that way you directly respond to the stated
requirements.
5. Ideals
Here you look at the universality of the concept. You view the project as a
universal one something which will be a universal solution for even a general
problem
So, how well did you fare in remembering them? You dont have to use all five at
the same time. You just have to choose which of them fits your thesis.

d. Design Parameters / Design Considerations

All done! All you need to do now is check the existing standards applicable to
your thesis for translation. These will comprise your design parameters or design
considerations. This applies both to the structures and its immediate environment (both
the micro and the macro).
You may have to be guided with legal documents and follow pertinent laws.
Building orientation, circulation, security, accessibility, and economy are important
factors you to consider. This will involve an explanation along with a long list of the laws,
rules and orders governing such considerations. This part will be the design guidelines
which will tell your readers as well the restrictions for your project.

d. Design Solution

Having established the guidelines would only mean youre ready to go to your
drawing board and translate this book into ARCHITECTURAL PLANS.

References: (APA Format)

Samples

BOOK

Geissler, E. M. (1998). Pocket guide to cultural assessment (2nd ed.). St. Louis,
MO: Mosby.

BOOK CHAPTER, ESSAY, or ARTICLE when author is credited

de Paula, T. C. M., Lagana, K., & Gonzalez-Ramirez, L. (1996). Mexican
Americans. In J. G. Lipson, S. L Dibble, & P. A. Minarik (Eds.), Culture and nursing care:
A pocket guide (pp. 203-221). San Francisco: USCF Nursing Press.
BOOK CHAPTER, ESSAY, or ARTICLE when no author is credited (paper version)
Russians. (1998). In T. L. Gall (Ed.), Worldmark encyclopedia of cultures and daily
life (Vol. 4, pp. 332-339). Detroit, MI: Gale Research.
BOOK CHAPTER, ESSAY, or ARTICLE when no author is credited (online version)
Russians. (1998). Worldmark encyclopedia of cultures and daily life. Retrieved January
9, 2003 from Discovering Collection database.
ARTICLE in a STANDARD ENCYCLOPEDIA (paper copy)
Islam. (1992). In The new encyclopaedia Britannica (Vol. 22, pp. 143). Chicago: Encyclopaedia Britannica.
ARTICLE in a STANDARD ENCYCLOPEDIA (web site version)
Islam. (1992). In Britannica.com. Retrieved February 9, 2002 from Britannica.com
database.
JOURNAL ARTICLE (paper copy)
Oguisso, T. (1999). Professional nursing in Brazil. International Nursing Review, 43, 8194.
JOURNAL ARTICLE (from an online database) (for more details, see the APA's official site)
Kavanagh, K., Absalom, K., Beil, W., & Schliessmann, L. (1999). Connecting and
becoming culturally competent: A Lakota example. Advances in Nursing Science, 21, 931.Retrieved March 26, 2001 from ProQuest/Nursing Journals database.

JOURNAL ARTICLE (online, on a web site) (for more details, see the APA's official site)
Outbreak news. (2001, February 23). Weekly Epidemiological Record, 76, 5764. Retrieved February 28, 2001 from http://www.who.int/wer/pdf/2001/wer7608.pdf

MAGAZINE ARTICLE (paper copy)

Ulrich, T. (1997, September 22). Linking an Amish hereditary disease with cerebral palsy,
a pediatrician challenges a dark inheritance. Time, 150, 30-33.
MAGAZINE ARTICLE (from an online database)
Ulrich, T. (1997, September 22). Linking an Amish hereditary disease with cerebral palsy,
a pediatrician challenges a dark inheritance. Time, 150, 30-33. Retrieved March 1,
2001from InfoTrac/Expanded Academic ASAP database.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE (paper copy)
Padilla, H. (2000, June 6). Hugo prohibits custom animal slaughter; the vote will officially
close a Hmong slaughterhouse, where animals were sacrificed for religious
reasons. Star Tribune (Minneapolis, MN), p. 1B.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE (from an online database)
Padilla, H. (2000, June 6). Hugo prohibits custom animal slaughter; the vote will officially
close a Hmong slaughterhouse, where animals were sacrificed for religious
reasons. Star Tribune (Minneapolis, MN), p. 1B. Retrieved February 28,
2001 from Lexis-Nexis Universe/General News database.
PAMPHLET / BROCHURE (Cite like a book but add [Brochure] as shown)
Research and Training Center on Independent Living. (1993). Guidelines for reporting
and writing about people with disabilities (4th ed.) [Brochure]. Lawrence, KS: Author.
ERIC DOCUMENT
Fredrickson, M. (2000). Parent/child communication in migrant communities. Miami,
FL: Annual Meeting of the Speech Communication Association. (ERIC Document
Reproduction Service No. ED 377 236)
DISSERTATION
If you obtain an actual dissertation (not just its abstract), in print or on microform, check
the Publication Manual of the APA for complete directions on citing it properly.
DISSERTATION (abstract only, obtained on CINAHL)
Crow, G. K. (1988). Toward a theory of therapeutic syncretism: The Southeast Asian
experience: A study of the Cambodians' use of traditional and cosmopolitan health
systems. (Doctoral dissertation, University of Utah, 1988). Abstract retrieved March 19,
2001 from CINAHL database.
DISSERTATION (abstract only, obtained from DAI on FirstSearch)

Crow, G. K. (1988). Toward a theory of therapeutic syncretism: The Southeast Asian

experience: A study of the Cambodians' use of traditional and cosmopolitan health
systems (Doctoral dissertation, University of Utah, 1988). Dissertation Abstracts
International, 49(08B), 3101. Abstract retrieved March 19, 2001 from First
Search/Dissertation Abstracts International database.
WEBSITE (NOT from an online database) (for more details, see the APA's official site)
The Amish, the Mennonites, and the Plain People. (n.d.). Retrieved May 30,
2000 from Pennsylvania Dutch Country Welcome Center Web site:
http://www.800padutch.com/amish.shtml
INTERVIEWS, E-MAILS, PHONE CONVERSATIONS, etc.
"Because they do not provide recoverable data, personal communications are not
included in the reference list. Cite personal communications in text only. Give the initials
as well as the surname of the communicator, and provide as exact a date as possible."
(APA Manual, section 3.102) Example: I. M. Certain (personal communication, April 1,
2000).
PRESENTATIONS, SPEECHES, POSTER SESSIONS, etc.
Like the example above, if they do not provide "recoverable data," these would not be
included in the reference list and would be cited in the text only. If, however, something
tangible exists (e.g. handouts of PowerPoint slides, an abstract in a conference program,
etc.), it might be citable. See the APA Manual, section 4.16 D and F. Here is an example
of a poster session:
Worral, P. S. & Levin, R. (2004, June). Developing a statewide research agenda. Poster
session presented at the biannual meeting of the American Nurses
Association, Minneapolis, MN.
Since they ask, I have suggested to students who wish to cite a
presentation unofficially, for an undergraduate paper, that they could cite it like this:
Twohy, K. (2004, January 15). Testimony given at Health, Human Services and
Corrections Budget Division, St. Cloud, Minnesota.
GOVERNMENT DOCUMENT See Citing Government Documents: American Psychological
Association
LEGAL MATERIALS See Citing Legal Materials in APA Style
(Remember that, in a real paper, the above citations would all be in hanging indent format.)
NOTES - to clarify some of the trickier points!

Using italics, as in the examples above, is preferred, but underlining is still acceptable.

Italicize book and journal titles, but not article titles.

APA's capitalization rules for titles can be confusing! In the reference list, capitalize the
first letter of every main word of a journal, magazine or newspaper title. For book and
article titles, capitalize only the first letter of the first word of the title, the first word of its
subtitle (if it has one), and any proper names. In the text of a paper, however, the rules
are different, and every main word of a title gets capitalized.

Use only the initials of the authors'/editors' first (and middle) names, leave a space
between initials (e.g. Rowling, J. K., not J.K.), and link multiple names with an
ampersand (&).

If no author is given, start with the title and then the date.

Use "et al" in place of the additional authors when there are more than six authors.

Journal articles: If each issue of the periodical begins with page one, include the issue
number after the volume number as shown in the examples. If the page numbering
continues from issue to issue, do not include the issue number.

Websites: if the date the page was created (or updated) is not given, put "n.d." (no date)
in the citation in place of the date. (This is not to be confused with the date
you retrievedit.)

For articles retrieved in full text from a database (e.g. ProQuest Nursing Journals),
you don't need the web address (URL), just the full name of the database.

These cities can be listed without a state abbreviation because they are well known for
publishing: Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York,
Philadelphia, andSan Francisco. In addition, when the publisher is a university and
the name of the state (or Canadian province) is included in its name, do not repeat the
state (or province) in the publisher location.

When typing your Reference List, double space all lines.

Use hanging indents, that is, the first line of each item should be flush left, and the
second and subsequent lines should be indented. (The above examples are not
displayed this way because hanging indents cannot easily be rendered on web pages.)

For documents and situations not listed here, see the printed manual, in the reference
collection at both libraries. Its call number is Reference BF 76.6 .P83 2001, or other APA
websites listed on Citing Sources.

This DWCC Manual for Thesis Writing is based from the following references:
Architecture Thesis Manual EMCVillanueva.GRLajom
Thesis Manual.2006
University of the Philippines Masters of Architecture Guide for Thesis-writing
Draft of Far Eastern University Architecture Thesis Manual
Sattrup, P. A. (2012). Architectural Research Paradigms: an overview and a research example
Swanson, Richard A. Theory Building in Applied Disciplines. San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers 2013.
Groat L. & Wang, D (2002). Architectural Research Methods , John Wiley & Sons, Inc. United States of America

Research Topic
A research topic is something born with your thesis. Ideally these topics should be
thought of before the project since these are basically the things of your interest.
In selecting a research topic, you should look into the thesis project and see the
possible requirements or kind of character which will make it unique or increase its architectural
value. In other words, being the soul of your book, this section will give your readers a great
deal of what they will be reading as they go along with your thesis. These research topics do not
only explain the essential things about your study but clarify as well the theoretical or conceptual
framework you mentioned in Chapter 1. This would require you to write the applicability of these
topics to your project and so you should be wise in selecting the topics. Be very specific. Focus.
How will you do this? First, you have to orient your readers why you choose the topics as
your focal points of study. You can very well do this by reiterating the roots of your problem(s).
You have to go back to the background you have presented in Chapter 1 and stress the need
for the topics to be studied so as to have a clear solution, in the end, to the problems posted in
the statement.
a. The Research Body
This is the thorough discussion regarding the research. This should contain
studies, approaches as well as trends relative to your topic. But dont be misguided. A
common mistake here is that the contents of the research body are lifted from published
work, completely! Any data or information appearing on this part will have to be
processed and quoted. Discussions should be paraphrased and properly acknowledged!
The information should be brief and discussions are well-organized. Again, the key is
focus.
Application
It was mentioned earlier that your research will not have any value or significance
unless you connect it with a project which will manifest the studies made. This is the part
where you relate your topics with your project. Be specific. Bear in mind that what youll
be writing should be something which will give your readers a clear understanding of

your thesis and not confuse them. Go straight to the point. however, cross examine
these data. Check on its economic feasibility and other areas you might think is
appropriate for study

Guidelines for the Thesis Book

THEME
The theme for the thesis shall be FILIPINO ARCHITECTURE IN RESPONSE TO
THE GLOBAL SCENARIO. The student-proponent shall have to come up with a thesis
which will embody concepts and design solutions that are locally feasible and globally
competitive.
Research Topics
The student can choose any three (3) from the given list of research topics.
These topics should provide adequate foundation for the title/proposal.
1. The Natural Environment
a. Green Architecture
b. Tropical Design
c. Sick Building Syndrome
d. Architecture in Response to Natural Phenomena
2. The Human Environment
a. Anthropometrics
b. Ergonomics
c. Proxemics
d. Environment-Behavior Studies
3. The Social Implications of Architecture
a. Historical Preservation
b. Urban Renewal
c. Social Engineering
d. Filipino Architecture
4. Theories of Architecture
a. Psychological Effects of Spaces
b. Principles of Scale and Proportion
c. Design of Interior Environments
d. Theories of Territoriality and Defensible
Spaces
5. Architectural Technology
a. Intelligent Building Design
b. Indigenous Technology
c. Architectural Innovations
d. Interior Architecture
e. High-rise Structures

Timetable for Submittals

A schedule of submittals will be provided by the Thesis Adviser to guide the
students in programming their activities with respect to given deadlines.

Deadline for Submission

A copy of the Final Draft of the Thesis Book shall be submitted not later
than 5:00 in the afternoon, fourteen (14) days before the Finals Week of the first
semester. Failure to submit the Book on time shall mean automatic
disqualification for Architectural Design X.

Thesis Book Format

Size of paper: A4 (29.7 x 21.0 cm)
Orientation: Portrait
Language: English Text
Format: General 12 Times New Roman
Subtitles 14 Times New Roman Bold
.
Titles 16 Times New Roman Bold
Margins: Left 2 inches
Right 2 inches
Top 1 inch
Bottom 1 inch
Thesis Cover Format
A uniform pattern for the cover of the Thesis Book must be followed. The
cover shall also be in landscape format using the text font and sizes as indicated in
Figure The cover shall be maroon with silver letters.

Guidelines for Oral Defense of Thesis Book

Schedule of Defense
The Final Draft of the Thesis Book shall be defended one week before the Finals
Week for the first semester. Date of defense will be announced by the Thesis/Course
Adviser.
The proponent should come 30 minutes before his/her schedule to defend.
Those who will come 30 minutes after their schedule shall not be allowed to defend
anymore, and, therefore shall get a failing grade for the Defense.
Manner of Defense
The Thesis Book shall be presented by the proponent in front of a Panel of
Jurors using MS PowerPoint. A compact disk containing the presentation shall be
submitted after the deliberation. Each student shall be given 15 minutes to present the

Book. Questions coming from the Jurors may be answered in another 15 minutes. After
which the Jurors shall assess the merits of the Book and give their grade for the
Defense. Thesis/ Course Adviser shall compute the grade. If there are
recommendations, these shall be read by the Adviser who shall also announce whether
the Proponent passed or failed the Oral Defense.
The Jury grade shall comprise 35 % of the students final grade for the book
while the Adviser shall give the remaining 65%, which will come from the performance
and submittals of the student during the course subject. Since the grade for the book
comprises 35% of the grade in Design 9, a failing grade in the Book Defense will
certainly mean automatic disqualification for the next Architectural Design subject. In
case of Defense in Design Application, a failing or incomplete grade will be given
depending on the recommendations of the Jurors.
Panel of Jurors
A panel of jurors composed not more than three architects, faculty members
from the Department of Architecture and from Industry shall deliberate on the merits of
the Book. The Thesis Council represented by the Department Dean, the Program
Coordinator and Course Adviser, being the regulating body in this procedure, is excluded
from sitting as members of the panel.
The jurors shall be selected so that the schedule of defense will not be in conflict
with the schedule of their classes and other co-curricular activities. Knowledge and/or
exposure to the respective research topics will be the primary criteria for the selection of
Jury members.
Deliberations Grading System
The Jurys grade will be based upon a set of criteria which was previously
presented and agreed upon by the Thesis Class. This grade will represent 35% of the
students final grade for the book. Therefore, a failing grade for the book shall also mean
failure in Design 9 and disqualification from the next Architectural Design subject which
is Design 10. In case of Defense in Design Application, a failing or incomplete grade will
be given depending on the recommendations of the Jurors.

The grade for the Oral Defense shall be based on the following criteria:
Content

60%

Presentation Oral

20%

Graphical

20%
100%

Dress Code
The proponents are strictly required to wear the prescribed school uniform
including his/her identification card during the Book Defense. For Design Application
Defense, a corporate attire is required.
Fees

Each student shall pay the amount of ____________(P __________) at the

Deans Office for the deliberation of the Book and Design Application for Jurors
Honorarium.

#MikeThesisTips
BATTLEFIELD

16. Thesis is your showcase of what you have learned in architecture school its all about
ATTITUDE
Rather than facing your thesis with fear, think about it as the crowning glory of all you have
learned in the whole stay in architectural school. The thesis is like the icing to the cake, as it can
cover up your ups and downs in your student career. Make it something you can be proud about!
15. You are the one who knows your thesis best, so have CONFIDENCE it helps during
deliberation
Of all the people in the room during the deliberation, you have worked on the project for at least
a whole year. No one is more familiar with the project, so that should give you confidence in
your presentation.
14. Explain your concepts and drawings from MACRO to MICRO the big picture first before
the details
When you explain your design concepts, site plan, floor plan, elevations, etc., always start with
the overview or broad strokes. Add in the details only after having presented the overview.

13. DELIVERY is the clincher in the thesis deliberation. Start with an ice breaker, then state,
illustrate and summarize your objectives, and end with bang.
The way your present your thesis project and get the jury to understand your project will be the
main bulk of your grade. Impression counts a lot. Try to limit your design objectives to three and
know them by heart. The whole process of deliberation, being an academic exercise, is to state
your design objectives, illustrate through your concepts and drawings how you have attained
your design objectives, and finally summarize how you have achieved your design objectives.
An ice breaker at the beginning and a feel-good ending would complete the whole deliberation
plan.

BOARDS:

12. Design for an AWESOME project. If it does not excite, redesign.

Architectural design must have some drama. If you think that your design is common-place or
has been seen before, improve it. Redesign until you think it is awesome!
11. Have a REASON for EVERYTHING on your boards. If you don't know why it is there,
remove it/

Anything on your design boards opens up a possibility of a question from the jury. As designers,
there has to be a reason for every item, line, wall, etc. Make sure you review your boards and
understand everything on it.
10. Principle of AXIS and FOCAL POINTS in site plans, floor plans and elevations.
It is said that the best drawings should be understood instinctively. Drawings organized with
relationships of axis and focal points give a sense of clarity and organization.
The site development plan, the floor plans and the elevations should have a design axis. When
two or more axis meet, you can create a focal point.

BOOK:
9. Make UNIVERSAL DESIGN and SUSTAINABILITY part of the design objectives.
Sustainability is a major concern for the building industry as resources are starting to dwindle.
On the other hand, equality is a key issue in society equal access of persons of diverse abilities.
These two key points should be part of every design.
note: Universal Design is the current topic of my series
8. Review EXISTING BUILDINGS similar to your project why reinvent the wheel?
Study similar buildings to give you an idea of how the designers solved their problems. This
review could be a starting point for your own design.
7. Determine the KEY PARAMETER of your project and FOCUS your solution on it.
Every project type has a key parameter, such that without it, the project would fail. These could
be security, safety, sizes of aircraft (for airports), etc. Once you determine that key parameter (or
key parameters), focus your research on the best way to achieve it.

6. Compile all the STANDARDS related to your project.

Standards include space parameters, structural systems, utility systems, finishes, ergonomics,
equipment sizes, etc. that relate to your thesis project.
5. Compile all the LAWS and CODES affecting your project.
Laws and codes must be followed to the letter, as there is no negotiation with the law. Compile
all the laws and codes that cover your project, and illustrating these laws in graphic form would
be helpful.
BEFORE:
4. Make FRIENDS with the lower years they will be useful when you need additional help in
your thesis presentation.
When preparing the boards, the models and the presentation materials, a lot of assistance would
be welcome. You may not be able to rely on your batchmates who are also doing their thesis. The
students in the lower batches may be of help, as they would welcome the opportunity to be
exposed to thesis work.
3. Identify a PROBLEM IN SOCIETY, then think of an ARCHITECTURAL SOLUTION
This is a way of identifying your thesis project that responds to a real need. Observe your
community and try to identify problems that should be corrected to make the community a better
place to live in. These could be crime, traffic, floods, garbage, etc. Once identified, focus on an
architectural solution to that problem.
2. Do a FACILITY CHECK for a 1 kilometer, 5 kilometer and 10 kilometer radius around your
site. Should a major facility be missing, you could consider that as your thesis project.
Another way of determining the thesis project is to check the surroundings of the project site for
the major facilities in the area. A missing facility could readily be the thesis project. In any case,
a check on the surroundings will help determine the linkages of the thesis project with the other
facilities around.
1. Choose a site with COMPLETE DATA, then propose the BEST USE for the site.
Occasionally, site data may not be readily available for the students due to privacy issues. It is
best that site data be gathered for several sites before the thesis proposal. With each available
site, try to think of projects that would be the best for the specific site.