Determine the Properties of foundation
Soil profile together with natural type and properties of each strata will have a bearing on the choice of foundation. The fact that load is ultimately taken up by the soil shows the limit up to which alternative types of foundations may help. In cases where the soil at the top is weak. Deep foundations can be resorted to. In extreme cases, either ground improvement or modification of structure may be necessary. Lateral variability of the ground can also cause problem for which combined footings or raft will offer a solution