New Software Simplifies Masonry/Steel Design

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

NovemberDecember 2008
Industry News

New Software Simplifies Masonry/Steel Design

The International Masonry Institute, the National Concrete Masonry Association, Bentley Systems, and Ryan Biggs Associates have teamed up to develop an innovative structural masonry design software program that the group says offers a “whole building” approach for designers that will shrink design time from weeks to days.

The software performs efficient analysis of both loadbearing masonry buildings and the so-called “hybrid” concept of masonry/steel design (steel-framed buildings with reinforced masonry infill). To make designers comfortable using the new software, the groups are sponsoring a national seminar series that covers both hybrid masonry/steel and loadbearing masonry buildings.

The seminars will offer professional education credits, and cover theory and design, as well as whole building analysis. For more information, visit www.imiweb.org. MD

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 36 Recap: Kim Spahn, CEO of the Concrete Masonry Checkoff
January 2026

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Justin got to sit down for a conversation with Kim Spahn to talk about the Concrete Masonry Checkoff, how Kim first got involved in this industry, and much more.

Justin Stengel
The MASONRY STRONG Podcast
Read More
From Day One to Long-Term Success: Onboarding Strategies for Contractors
January 2026

The construction industry is facing one of its toughest challenges in decades. Companies are struggling to find enough skilled workers while competing to keep the ones they have. At the same time, projects are becoming more complex, deadlines are tighter,

Matt Dibara
Business Management
Read More
Finding the Right PPE for Your Work
January 2026

When it comes to PPE, one thing’s for sure: safety isn’t one size fits all. The work you’re doing, where you’re doing it, and even what time of year it is, can all make a big difference in what gear actually works. Price, comfort, and job performance all

Greg Brown
Safety Library
Read More
Back Injuries: The Real Cost and How to Prevent Them
January 2026

The mention of back injuries makes mason contractors cringe, and for good reason. Masons lift heavy objects every day, all day long. When a person sustains a back injury, it is serious. It affects every part of their life, from their ability to perform wo

Zach Everett
Safety Library
Read More
Interested in working with us? Learn about and join the Masonry Alliance Program →