Shallow foundations are classic structures in the geotechnical domain. Despite of their popularity in application and the simplicity in realization, the design methods of these constructions are still in need of development and increasing their reliability, especially the direct method using in situ testing and especially dynamic penetration test (DPT). Numerous field tests are carried out to understand their behavior under loading and data correlation with other ground investigation techniques. These experimental works are considerable enriching the database and increasing the reliability of the method. This communication then presents the performance of these in-situ tests, consist of plate loading tests and dynamic cone penetration tests, their results obtained from several sites and the application for shallow foundation conception with DPT method. First, the foundation loading tests, including a developed loading system with a lightweight possible for mobile and practical in use, are shown. Measurement data from a test campaign performed in experimental test sites of various soil lithology, partly presented previously in, is synthesized and analyzed. From this database, a direct design method developed for footings is also introduced in the second part, the result of bearing capacity assessment based on DPT data is compared to other already standardized methods. The conclusion from this study contributes to the development of a shallow foundation direct design method, experimental works are discussed to enlighten the in-situ test equipment and technics, then the result acquired from measurements.