In structures with multiple columns, creating a Mat Foundation of the desired size for selected columns requires manual input of coordinates, as shown in the attached screenshot.
While coordinate input may be efficient from a developer’s perspective, it is highly inconvenient for users. To determine the coordinates of the foundation and the supported columns relative to the origin, users must maintain a separate Excel file.

As shown in the example I provided, it is practically impossible to model such a foundation solely within the STAAD Foundation environment. To make the process workable, an improved workflow is required—such as allowing users to define the dimensions relative to the supported columns, or to specify the foundation plate area first and then set the offsets from each supported column.

As mentioned in a previous IDEA submission, the current STAAD Foundation workflow assumes that the foundation plate location is already fixed and only supports “structural analysis and design checks” at that predetermined location.
It is not capable of performing the actual design tasks needed to determine the foundation’s plan layout or to establish its proper position relative to the structure.

We strongly request functional improvements so that the software can be used effectively in real design workflows.