Years passed from first time using the finite element method to simulate almost all cases within a recommendation that its fit to predict a similar behavior of the experimental programs, .. What did you think upon your opinion...?
Finite element methods are powerful tool in analysis and design airplanes, space rockets,submarines etc.,but in structural Eng. the strategy of adapting such methods to replace the experimental work didn't followed yet.
In many civil engineering problem the complexity of such problem let the analytical solution or experimental modelling is difficult in simulating. Hence, the numerical analysis with assumption make the solution approximately but acceptable. Problems of cracks in concrete, jointed rock masses, flow in joints and anisotropic material etc.