ETABS – ETABS stands for Extended Three-dimensional Analysis of Building Systems.

ETABS is a complex
program used mostly for the structural analysis and design of buildings. It caters to multi-story building
analysis and design. In short, ETABS can be used to both design and analyze a building and simulate how
the building’s loads are distributed. ETABS is mostly used for commercial, multi-story buildings that
typically consist of identical or similar floor plans in each story.

Uses of ETABS

1. Easily calculate the amount of reinforcement needed

2. Viewing elevations in 3D
3. Foundation plan

4. Analysis of concrete frames

5. Generally, make the checking of stability of the structure far easier.

 Pros and cons

Pros:
1. Very detailed and powerful software with a lot of helpful features
2. Makes structural analysis easier
3. Handles 3D models really well
4. More convenient to use when dealing with larger commercial buildings

Cons:

1. One of the most complicated softwares

2. Very hard to learn and even harder to master

Sample vid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_CnDPhH-tE&t=335s

 SAP2000

SAP2000 - SAP2000 is another software available for design and analysis of structures. It is also used in
many structural firms. SAP2000 has a wide selection of templates for quickly starting a new model.
SAP2000 includes parametric templates for the following types of structures: Simple Beams, 3D Trusses,
3D Frames, Storage Vessels, Staircases, Dam Structures, and Pipes.

Pros:

1. SAP2000 has templates readily available for users to use

2. It is easier to learn than other analysis programs
3. It has a very user-friendly UI

Cons:

1. While being easy to learn, it is also more limited in terms of functionality in comparison to other
programs
2. You cannot use your own elements and materials in SAP 2000
3. Close-sourced
Sample vid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIwlO2S2be4