The objective of this study was to understand and develop procedures for the use of the AISC 2005 Specification's Direct Analysis Method for the analysis and design of heavy-industry industrial structures, to layout a systematic approach for the engineer to analyze and design using this method, and to determine if there will be any consequences to the practicing engineer in using this method. The relevant 13th Edition AISC stability analysis methods (Effective Length,First-Order, and Direct Analysis Methods) were researched in the 2005 Specification aswell as in available technical literature, and then were critically evaluated by their applicability and limitations. This study will help serve as a guide for the systematic approach for the practicing engineer to apply this method to analyze and design such complex steel frame structures using the computer-aided software called GTSTRUDL. To accomplish this purpose, two analytical models were studied using the Direct Analysis Method. The first model was a simple industrial structure and the second model was a more complex nuclear power plant boiler building.