Foundation springs can be defined at column, brace or wall bases (i.e. at foundation nodes of these members). At a typical foundation node, six components of a spring can be defined: three translational (linear) springs and three rotational springs. Translational springs resist axial forces whereas the rotational springs resist bending and torsional actions. By default, the springs are defined according to global axes. Users have options to define them in the local system as explained in the following subsections.

Foundation springs can be set by invoking the Assign – Foundation Springs command. Assigned springs are also visible on screen by calling View – Foundation Springs. Two different commands are available to assign or delete foundation springs: one for column or brace bases, and one for wall bases. The figures in Assigning Foundation Springs at Column Base show the commands used for springs at columns, brace and wall bases, respectively.

Calculated stiffness values and other related information about foundation springs are tabulated in the "Model Data" report.

Deflected shapes on screen also indicate the effects of springs at foundation nodes.