The RAM Frame program functions in four major modes: Analysis, Steel, Drift Control, and Shear Wall Forces modes.

Each mode has its own set of associated Criteria, Assign, Process, and Reports commands.

The Analysis Mode is further sub-divided into Load Cases and Load Combinations sub-modes.

Upon entering RAM Frame, the program is in Analysis - Load Cases Mode. In this mode, frame analysis criteria, lateral loads and load cases are defined. The frame analysis of the structure is performed, including the calculation of member forces, deflection, drift and mode shapes in the Analysis – Load Cases Mode. Results of the analysis corresponding to load cases may be displayed in the same mode. See Analysis - Load Cases Mode for more information on Analysis Mode.

The Analysis - Load Combinations Mode is entered by either going to the Mode menu and selecting first Analysis and then Load Combinations or by simply selecting the Load Combinations item from the Mode box on the dialog bar. This mode allows the user to view results in terms of load combinations rather than load cases. In Load Combinations Mode, Custom load combinations are defined before results will be available. To define custom load combinations select Custom Load Combinations on the tool bar. In the Analysis - Load Combinations Mode no analysis is available, but results, report and printing are available for all selected load combinations.

Once an analysis is completed, the engineer is able to switch to any of the other available modes through the Mode menu, or by selecting the desired mode in the Mode box on the toolbar.

The Steel mode is further broken down into Standard Provides and Seismic Provisions sub-modes.

Code-checking and design of steel members and joints is performed in the Steel – Standard Provisions Mode and the Steel – Seismic Provisions Mode. They are invoked by either going to the Mode menu and selecting first Steel and then either Standard Provisions or Seismic Provisions or by simply selecting the item from the Mode box on the dialog bar. These modules require a separate license. Refer to their respective Manuals for more information.

The Drift Control module is invoked by either selecting Mode > Drift Control or by simply selecting the Drift Control item from the Mode box on the dialog bar. This module requires a separate license. Refer to its Manual for more information.

The Shear Wall Forces Mode is invoked by selecting from the Model box on the dialog bar. This module does not require a separate license.

Design of Concrete members can be performed in the RAM Concrete Module, which is separate from RAM Frame. However, all lateral forces on concrete members are taken from the analysis performed in RAM Frame.