Final considerations and future developments

As described by the different authors of this report, the interaction between structural and geotechnical engineers is a major factor in the success of most construction projects. With the help of examples, the report illustrates the influence of this interaction on economic and safety aspects of construction. Summarising national reports on interaction between structural and geotechnical engineers (chapter 5), it should be pointed out that there is a lack of regulations covering the interaction between the two professions in all countries. Even though the foundation for a successful interaction between the disciplines is laid during education, special courses on soil-structure interaction and interaction between structural and geotechnical engineers are compulsory only at a few universities. However, in all countries basic courses in both disciplines are compulsory for both structural and geotechnical engineers, which is important for making communication possible.