Improved Engineering Solutions because of Improved Site Characterization

Increasing demand for sustainable transportation systems and for modernized infrastructure poses new challenges to the geotechnical engineer. More than before, the profession should aim at engineering more economical solutions, developing improved and safer transportation solutions and encouraging innovation while preserving the environment. To meet these challenges, an alliance of good practice and research is required. Such is illustrated with examples where improved in situ characterization of the foundation soil considerably reduced costs, and improved performance. The extent of site investigations should be a decision taken considering hazard and consequence, including cost, and therefore it is a risk-based decision.