Empirical ground-motion prediction equations (GMPEs) require adjustment
to make them appropriate for site-specific scenarios. However, the process of
making such adjustments remains a challenge. This article presents a holistic framework
for the development of a response spectral GMPE that is easily adjustable to
different seismological conditions and does not suffer from the practical problems
associated with adjustments in the response spectral domain. The approach for developing
a response spectral GMPE is unique, because it combines the predictions of
empirical models for the two model components that characterize the spectral and
temporal behavior of the ground motion. Essentially, as described in its initial form
by Bora et al. (2014), the approach consists of an empirical model for the Fourier
amplitude spectrum (FAS) and a model for the ground-motion duration. These two
components are combined within the random vibration theory framework to obtain
predictions of response spectral ordinates. In addition, FAS corresponding to individual
acceleration records are extrapolated beyond the useable frequencies using the
stochastic FAS model, obtained by inversion as described in Edwards and Fäh (2013a).
To that end, a (oscillator) frequency-dependent duration model, consistent with the
empirical FAS model, is also derived. This makes it possible to generate a response
spectral model that is easily adjustable to different sets of seismological parameters,
such as the stress parameter Δσ, quality factor Q, and kappa κ0. The dataset used in
Bora et al. (2014), a subset of the RESORCE-2012 database, is considered for the
present analysis. Based upon the range of the predictor variables in the selected dataset,
the present response spectral GMPE should be considered applicable over the magnitude
range of 4 ≤ Mw ≤ 7:6 at distances ≤200 km.