When generating a structural model, gravity members and lateral frame members must be differentiated. This is done by setting the Framing option to either Gravity or Lateral when first laying down a member or by using the Layout - <Member Type> - Change Properties command to modify an existing member.

Gravity steel members can be designed for gravity loads using the RAM Steel Beam and RAM Steel Column Design modules. These design modules optimize member sizes for the gravity loads, choosing the lightest member that conforms to Code Specifications and user-specified criteria. Optimal sizes can be overridden and different sizes assigned.

If steel frame beams or columns are modeled but not assigned a size in the RAM Modeler, the RAM Steel Beam Design and RAM Steel Column Design modules will perform a gravity design on them, but will not include those frame members in the program output. This is useful for obtaining preliminary sizes for frame members based on gravity loads assuming pinned end conditions.

Gravity and lateral concrete members can be designed for both gravity and lateral loads using the RAM Concrete Beam and RAM Concrete Column Design modules. The Concrete design modules optimize member reinforcement for the gravity and lateral loads, choosing reinforcement per Code and user specifications. Optimal reinforcement can be overridden and different reinforcement assigned.

Lateral frame members of any material can be analyzed using RAM Frame. Lateral member sizes can be assigned in the RAM Modeler, or for steel members, can be automatically designed for gravity loads in RAM Steel, prior to entering RAM Frame. The effects of gravity members supported on lateral frame members, including loads and compression flange bracing, are considered in the analysis performed by RAM Frame. RAM Frame does not analyze the gravity members themselves.