AISC 360-22 Connection Design Checklist (Excel)

This Excel-based checklist operationalizes the prescriptive and performance-based requirements of AISC 360-22 Chapter J (Design of Connections) and related sections such as Chapter D (Design Requirements), Chapter B (Design Requirements for Stability), and Appendix 1 (Load and Resistance Factor Design). It embeds logical validation rules (e.g., conditional formatting for overstress, dropdown menus for connection type and loading condition) and integrates key design workflows: load path verification, fastener layout assessment, weld sizing per AISC Part 8, bearing and tear-out checks, block shear evaluation per Section J4.3, and prying action analysis where applicable. Each worksheet typically corresponds to a connection category and includes embedded hyperlinks to relevant AISC 360-22 clauses, AISC Design Guides (e.g., DG29 for bolted connections), and illustrative sketches or reference tables (e.g., minimum edge distances, bolt group coefficients). The tool promotes consistency across project teams, facilitates peer review by documenting assumptions and code citations, and serves as an auditable record for quality assurance—especially valuable in regulated infrastructure and high-rise projects where connection reliability directly impacts life safety and serviceability.