Abstract: The traditional stability design method for scaffolding structures is based on linear calculation results and the theory of effective length coefficients. The traditional method is accurate enough for conventional scaffolding structures, provided that the effective length coefficient of the compressed member can be correctly evaluated. However, a fine design method with higher calculation accuracy should be adopted for the design of ultra-high and large scaffold structures with complex loading conditions. An advanced design method for scaffolding based on direct analysis method was proposed in the paper. Firstly, a large number of geometric measurements and statistical analysis about the initial bending of scaffolding members were carried out, and an accurate data model for initial defect of scaffolding members was established. Secondly, an experimental research was conducted on the typical connection joints of the buckle type scaffold, and the semi-rigid characteristic of the connection with different loading cases were obtained, including bending in beams, compression or tension in beams and braces. Moreover, the research results including initial defect of scaffolding members and semi-rigid properties of scaffolding connection were imported into the nonlinear structure analysis tools NIDA. Finally, a real project with ultra-high and large disk-buckled scaffolding structure was introduced.