This thesis explores the significance of incorporating horizontal hydraulic conductivity into settlement calculations, contrasting the conventional one- dimensional (1D) approach with two and three-dimensional (3D) modeling. The study is conducted across five test sites in eastern Sweden, each presenting unique geological conditions that influence settlement behaviors under load. 1D analysis is performed using analytical methods, whereas 2D and 3D settlement analysis are performed using the Plaxis 2D program. The 3D model included horizontal hydraulic conductivity, while the 2D and1D models considered only vertical drainage.The results show that 3D settlement rates are consistently higher at sites with thicker soil layers, such as Folkparksvägen, Råcksta, and Södra Messingen. This is attributed to the inclusion of horizontal drainage paths in the 3D models, which allows for faster dissipation of pore water pressures. Conversely, sites with thinner soil layers, such as Linea and Erikssund, exhibit higher settlement rates in the 1D analytical model due to the dominance of vertical drainage. These findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate modeling approaches based on site-specific conditions. For sites with thin soil layers and high vertical hydraulic conductivity, simplified 1D models can be sufficient, saving time and computational effort. Whereas at sites with thick soil layers and anisotropic hydraulic conductivity, 3D models may be more suitable.At sites with slower consolidation rates due to thick clay layers, techniques such as preloading and vertical drains can be employed to accelerate settlement by shortening drainage paths resulting in savings in terms of time and money.