The Geotextile Encased Columns (GEC) foundation system for embankments and dikes on soft soils was introduced some 20 years ago and is now considered State-of-the-art in Germany and step by step worldwide. The GECs consist of compacted granular fill similar e.g. to common gravel columns with one decisive difference: they are confined in a high-strength woven geotextile “cylinder” (encasement) controlling their behavior. Consequently, they work properly even in extremely soft soils and a wide range of fills incl. of sand can be used. Huge technological and design experience is available; verified design methods exist. The paper focuses only on some basics and interesting aspects of design, installation, optimization and research.