Rigid inclusions is a ground improvement method using high deformation modulus columns constructed through compressible soils to reduce settlement and increase bearing capacity.

The general concept of the technique is the combination of an array of vertical rigid columns and a granular mattress (load transfer layer) to transfer the load from an embankment or slab to a deep hard strata.

The rigid inclusion system may be applied to all types of soil conditions but practically its economic benefit remains confined to soft or medium soils. The technique is mostly useful in cases where conventional soil improvement techniques fail to guarantee the necessary settlement criteria or their requirement of a minimum quality threshold for the surrounding soil.