I am running a finite element model to undertake a seismic response of a structure. I have been given the script to run. The finite element model produces mode shapes and participation factors which are combined to give a total seismic response. I would like to understand the method better and I was wondering if anyone had a spreadsheet calculating the seismic response of a simple structure (like a cantilever or a simple beam). I hope someone can help.

You are not having much luck Helen why not try the opensees website its an open code project for seismic engineering.

Thanks for you help John.