Tips & Tricks
July 3, 2025
From Sketch to Steel: Streamlining Fabricator Coordination
In structural steel projects, the transition from design to fabrication is a common source of coordination challenges. One of the biggest pain points? Connection design. Whether it’s miscommunication on end reactions or unclear design intent, connection assumptions can break down in the gap between engineering and detailing. By using RISA-3D and RISAConnection—and leveraging direct integrations with SDS2 and Tekla Structures—structural engineers can streamline the handoff to fabricators, reduce errors, and improve collaboration. This post walks through how to support real-world coordination using these tools in practice. 1. Model and Analyze the Steel Frame in RISA-3D Start by building your structural steel frame in RISA-3D. Define geometry, assign member sizes, apply loads, and analyze the model. Once you're satisfied with the analysis results, RISA-3D provides the connection forces—axial, shear, and moment reactions—for each member end. 2. Export Connection Forces to RISAConnection Next, send selected members and their design forces to RISAConnection. This direct integration eliminates the need to manually transfer loads or recreate geometry. Once in RISAConnection, you can: Choose from a library of shear, moment, and braced connections Model the full geometry, including bolt patterns, welds, and gusset plates View pass/fail results for each limit state, with clear failure mode…
Read More

June 10, 2025
RISA Employee Spotlight: Tim Barton
Meet Tim Barton, one of RISA's go-to problem solvers and Solutions Engineer extraordinaire! With a background as diverse as his playlist, Tim's engineering journey started with a BS in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Utah State University. Since earning his PE license in Utah, he's tackled...

May 23, 2025
RISA Software Options for Students and Educators
Empowering the Next Generation of Structural Engineers RISA is committed to supporting the academic community with free and affordable access to the same powerful software used by professionals in the industry. Whether you're a student just starting your journey or an educator shaping future...

May 15, 2025
ADAPT-Revit 2025 Link Now Available
RISA is pleased to announce the release of the latest ADAPT-Revit Link which is compatible with Revit 2025. The ADAPT-Revit Link v25.0 allows seamless integration between ADAPT-Builder and Autodesk Revit.

May 6, 2025
RISA Employee Spotlight: Wendi Garces
Wendi Garces is the Controller at RISA, bringing a wealth of experience from various industries, including travel, insurance, software, transit, and manufacturing. She even had a unique stint in Off-Road and IndyCar Racing, showcasing her adventurous spirit and adaptability. After earning her BS in...

April 29, 2025
RISA Customer Portal for Educational Users
RISA Educational Program RISA is proud to continue supporting the next generation of structural engineers by offering free access to our software through the RISA Educational Grant Program. For 2025, participating universities can access RISA software for $0 with a streamlined renewal and purchase...

April 22, 2025
Reinforced vs. Post-Tensioned Concrete: Which One Fits Your Project?
When designing a concrete structure, engineers must decide between conventionally reinforced concrete and post-tensioned (PT) concrete. This choice impacts the structure’s efficiency, cost, and long-term performance. Each system has unique mechanical behaviors and design considerations that...

April 8, 2025
RISA Employee Spotlight: Aaron Seybert
Aaron Seybert is a Structural Solutions Specialist at RISA, bringing over 15 years of experience in sales, management, marketing, and operations. Before joining RISA, he worked within the athletic and higher education sectors, handling both B2C and B2B relationships. His ability to connect with...
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Our monthly "Structural Moment" newsletter is the best way to keep up with RISA’s product updates, new releases, new features, training events, webinars and more...