Keep in mind the derivation of the cracking moment of a column depends on P/A also....not simply the moments by themselves.
Note that ACI's Ie value must be adjusted a bit if you have axial compression or tension.
ACI defines cracking stress as fr = 7.5 sqrt(f'c). Some folks prefer a lower value (5.0 sqrt(f'c))
ACI then sets Mcr = fr(Ig)/yt.
But with axial, you would adjust fr. If compression exists, then the cracking moment is higher (more moment required to overcome the axial to create tension on the face).
So the adjusted formula - Mcr = (fr + P/a)Ig/yt. Keep the sign convention such that a compressive P value is positive. The higher Mcr will increase the Ie value.
Also - the stiffer the column the more load it will soak up in the moment frame. So going lower on the stiffness (less than 0.7Ig) won't necessarily be more conservative and could be less so.
The use of these factors (0.7 for columns, 0.35 for beams) is not precise and any attempt to nail down an exact stiffness in a member might simply be fantasy.
Check out Eng-Tips Forum's Policies here:
faq731-376