Set up the project
Open Project Information, then choose the computation mode (Capacity, Settlement or both), the installation and SI or US units in Program Options. Save your project as an .sload file.
Define the pile
Add the pile sections with their lengths, dimensions and material. Set the free length, batter and tip condition.
Build the soil profile
Enter layer thicknesses and the water table in Geometry. Define each material in Soil Parameters, then connect layers and materials in Assign.
Choose methods and curves
Tick the capacity methods to compare and the transfer basis in Capacity Methods. Keep automatic t-z and Q-w curves, or enter your own in Load Transfer.
Load, run and review
Add load cases in Loading, press F9, and read the notes of the analysis. Compare capacity profiles, the load–settlement curve and the axial force of each case.
Prepare the report
Use File → Export. Choose the sections, charts and tables you need, then export to PDF, Word or Excel.
When something needs attention
Check Input lists an issue
Double-click the row to open the step it names. Typical issues: a pile longer than the soil profile, a layer without a material, or a material without the parameters of a ticked method.
A load case has no result
The message gives the largest load the pile reaches. The load exceeds the axial resistance: reduce it, or check the resistances of the soil (Settlement) or of the transfer basis method (Capacity + Settlement).
The methods give very different capacities
That is common: each method is an empirical relation from its own load tests. Check that the parameters suit every method, and choose the method for the design deliberately.