How is reliability-based design applied in geotechnical engineering?

Reliability-based design addresses inherent uncertainty in geotechnical parameters. Methods: (1) First-Order Reliability Method (FORM) - calculates reliability index beta from mean and COV of variables, (2) Monte Carlo simulation - random sampling of input distributions, (3) LRFD calibration - developing resistance factors from reliability analysis. Key challenges: characterizing spatial variability, parameter correlation, model uncertainty. Target reliability index typically 2.5-3.5 depending on consequence. Applications: slope stability with variable strength, pile capacity with installation variability, and code calibration.