Why are the effective length factors reported for the Indian design code so high?
Answer: ETABS computes effective length factors according to Wood's Charts, which is consistent with IS:456 requirements. A column effective length factor is dependent upon the rotational stiffness available at member ends. If an effective length is higher than expected, the flexural stiffness of interconnecting beams should be checked. Design-overwrite options are available for manual assignment of values, though computation is typically successful regardless of model complexity, as with double-height columns or conditions with numerous interconnecting beams.
