By default, all foundation nodes are assumed to be fixed in all the six directions. However, a pinned boundary condition at a foundation node can be achieved through member-end releases. For example, a moment pin at a node can be modeled by releasing moment restraints of the end of all members that meet at that node. Note that a foundation node can have releases only in three directions: namely minor axis rotation, major axis rotation or torsional rotation.

The base at the lowest level of each column is considered a foundation node, even if the column stops at some level other than the lowest. Stepped foundation conditions can be modeled merely by stopping some columns in a higher layout type than others. A warning may be given during the Data Check in the RAM Modeler indicating that such columns have no support below, but the condition is permitted.

In building structures with rigid diaphragms, stories can be restrained from moving in the lateral directions by specifying that the ground level is at the level of the story of interest. This is done in Criteria - General. All stories at, or below the "ground level" will be restrained from moving in any lateral direction (see "Ground Level" for further information).