Question: what are the minimum steps required for designing of a foundation?
Answer: Decide the Location of Columns & Foundation and Type of Loads Acting on Them. ... 
Estimate Allowable Bearing Pressure of Soil Using Ground Investigation Report. ... 
Decide Depth of Foundation. ... 
Calculate Foundation Area. ... 
Determine Variation in Vertical Stresses. ... 
Calculate Settlement. ... 
Cost Control. ... 
Consider Time.