Improved Geotechnical Analysis through Better Integration and Dynamic Interaction between Site Characterization and Analytical Theory

Since the earliest days of geotechnical engineering, soil properties developed during the site characterization phase of a project have typically been viewed as fixed quantities independent of the deterministic analyses in which they are eventually used. This paper explores the premise that given all the advances that have occurred in geotechnical engineering what is needed in both routine practice and research alike is a fundamental change in philosophy to one that links or couples site characterization outcomes and analytical theories in a seamless, integrated, dynamic fashion to converge at a unique final result that contains the desired answer to the analysis. The application of this concept to the common foundation engineering problem of bearing capacity of a spread footing is presented in detail to illustrate the process. Noteworthy is the fact that no unusual or sophisticated exploration, testing, or analytical tools are required which means this new conceptual approach is immediately applicable to the simplest of projects and on a routine basis.