The overall modeling, analysis and seismic design process using the ELF method is summarized as follows:

1. Modeling

   Identify the primary seismic members, i.e. those members that are part of the seismic force resisting system, and assign them an SFRS direction and SFRS type.

2. Loading and Analysis
   Run the Seismic Wizard to:

   1. Determine building height to the highest level and adjust it if required.
   2. Set the site class (ASCE 7), or ground type (Eurocode)
   3. Select ELF method of analysis (note some vertical or horizontal irregularities can prevent the use of this method.
   4. Set up a modal mass combination
   5. Set up the relevant seismic combinations
3. Static Design
   Run Design (Static) to:

   1. Conventionally design all members for all non-seismic (gravity and lateral) combinations
   2. Conventionally design all members for all seismic combinations in the same way as the other combinations.
   3. Perform additional seismic design for the seismic combinations for those members assigned to a SFRS
4. Calculation Output
   • A Seismic Design Report is available
   • Drift limitations are checked

The overall modeling, analysis and seismic design process using the RSA method is summarized as follows:

1. Modeling

   Identify the primary seismic members, i.e. those members that are part of the seismic force resisting system, and assign them an SFRS direction and SFRS type. These members will be designed and detailed according to the seismic provisions.

2. Loading and Analysis
   Run the Seismic Wizard to:

   1. Determine building height to the highest level and adjust it if required.
   2. Set the site class (ASCE 7), or ground type (Eurocode)
   3. Select RSA method of analysis
   4. Set up a modal mass combination
   5. Set up the relevant seismic RSA combinations
3. Static Design
   Run the Design (Static) to:

   • Conventionally design all members for all non-seismic (gravity and lateral) combinations .
4. Modal Analysis

   At this point it is recommended that you run a 1st order modal analysis in order to confirm the model converges on a solution, (until it is able to do so, it is pointless proceeding with a full RSA Seismic Design).

5. RSA Seismic Design
   Run the Design (RSA) to:

   1. Conventionally design all members for all RSA seismic combinations in the same way as the other combinations.
   2. Perform additional seismic design for the RSA seismic combinations for those members assigned to a SFRS
6. Calculation Output
   • A Seismic Design Report is available
   • Drift limitations are checked