Design includes selecting a suitable form of construction, determining the effects of imposed loads and deformations,
and providing members of adequate stiffness and resistance. The members should be arranged so as to combine efficient load transmission with ease of construction, consistent with the intended use of the structure and the nature of the site.

Experience and sound judgement are often more important than precise calculations in achieving safe and economical structures. Complex mathematics should not be allowed to confuse a sense of good engineering. The level of accuracy employed in the calculations should be consistent throughout the design process, wherever possible.

Structural design is largely controlled by regulations or codes but, even within such bounds, the designer needs to exercise judgement in interpreting the requirements rather than designing to the minimum allowed by the letter of a clause. In the United Kingdom for many years, the design of reinforced concrete structures has been based on the recommendations of British Standards.