ISSN: 2222-6990
Open access
The rise of digital work platforms has transformed labor markets, particularly in the gig economy, where freelance digital assistants rely on these platforms for employment opportunities. This study examined the relationship between digital platform usability, work platform utilization, and job quality among selected freelance digital assistants in San Pedro, Laguna. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected from 65 freelancers through an online survey and analyzed using statistical methods such as weighted mean and Pearson correlation. Findings revealed that digital platforms generally provided accessibility and efficiency in job search and communication, with freelancers agreeing on their usefulness. However, significant challenges remained in task management, dispute resolution, and customer support. Work platform utilization showed a moderate level (2.98), with strong points in job matching and professional work environments but weaknesses in workload tracking and freelancer evaluation. Job quality was perceived as satisfactory, particularly in flexibility and skill development, but concerns persisted in financial security, income stability, and stress management. Correlation analysis showed a moderate positive relationship between digital platform usability and job quality (0.487), a strong correlation between work platform utilization and job quality (0.721), and a moderate correlation between digital platform functionality and work platform utilization (0.552). These results indicated that improving platform usability, financial security measures, and support systems could enhance freelancers' job experiences. Based on the findings, an action plan was proposed to optimize digital work environments by addressing financial security gaps, workload management inefficiencies, and freelancer-client relationship dynamics.
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