DES develops the geotechnical and structural design of the underground works, foundations and slope stabilization, from conception to calculations, and from the preliminary design to the final and construction design. DES is equipped with the most sophisticated numerical and analytical tools in order to provide a specific and accurate answer to different issues: from the comparison of various project options, using modern techniques of Risk Management, to the evaluation in probabilistic terms of the safety factors of the works; and eventually to the detailed design. Beside the design activity, DES provides specialised consultancy and expertise on the various geotechnical and geomechanical matters.

A multidisciplinary activity supporting and coordinating the different aspects of projects:

• identification of the reference physical model;
• expected behaviour of the ground during excavation;
• identification and monitoring of the key parameters and comparing them to the pre-defined threshold levels;
• selection of contingency measures in case of necessity;
• construction feasibility with respect to the original time and cost frames;
• optimisation of the construction techniques and checks during construction.