The primary objective of structural analysis and design is to produce a structure capable of resisting all applied loads without failure during its intended life. If improperly designed, elements of a structure would fail to cause serious consequences such as large expenses or ultimately losses in lives that cannot be compared with any cost.

Once the architectural engineer sets the function and layout of the structure, the role of the structural engineer begins which can be summarized in the following steps to develop a safe, functional, and economic structure.

Example Design