Collection and utilization of data from earthquakes is an important method to learn lessons from the effects of seismic events. This research project uses data from the October 1, 1987, Whittier-Narrows Earthquake. Five reinforced concrete buildings that were instrumented with strong- ground motion equipment are being studied by this research project. The strong-ground motion records are being analyzed with a subsequent analysis of the theoretical response of the buildings. The observed response is being compared with that determined by computer methods thus allowing an evaluation of current design methodology procedures and current seismic design code requirements.