International Research Journal of Education and Technology

Civil engineering structural design deals with the critical parameters of economy, durability, and serviceability. It is quite challenging and time-consuming to achieve these objectives through manual methods. This paper studies the use of digital tools in structural design by taking ETABS as a tool for the analysis and design of a residential building. The output obtained from the software is compared with manual calculations to determine their accuracy and practicality. Even though ETABS and other software have gained popularity in the industry, the most appropriate software for any design requirement is still in question. This research thus emphasizes the pros and cons of ETABS, along with the improvement efforts of software developers in trying to bridge the gaps identified. Through its detailed comparison, the research paper serves as a guide for future users to pick suitable tools that can suit particular needs of structural design effectively. It further highlights the importance of using digital tools in improving the efficiency and accuracy of output with proper critical evaluation.

Key Words:  Structural design, civil engineering, ETABS software, digital tools, structural analysis.