Geometrically nonlinear effects have the potential to significantly affect the response of structural systems. Many commercial structural analysis programs and analysis techniques are either restricted to linear analyses or utilize linearized approximations. As a result, the effect of geometric nonlinearity on the static and dynamic response of structures has yet to be fully characterized. Examples of structures exhibiting nonlinear behavior are cable systems, including cable trusses (used in long span roof systems) and suspension bridges. Discrete, full geometrically nonlinear static structural analyses were conducted for three cable systems: two cable trusses used in cable roof systems, and a classical suspension bridge system consisting of a hanging cable and a stiffening girder. The system equations (force-deformation, deformation-displacement, and equilibrium) were non-dimensionalized for universal applicability, and the set of nonlinear equilibrium equations were numerically solved to yield the non-dimensionalized static response. The effects of geometric nonlinearity on the behavior of these systems were investigated through a number of parametric studies. Here, the results of these studies as well as insights on the behavior and design of these cable structures are presented.