In the AEC industry, BIM signifies a transformative shift. BIM goes beyond traditional design, integrating visual representation, data fusion, and collaboration. Three crucial concepts – BIM LOD (Level of Development), BIM Levels, and BIM LOI (Level of Information) – are central to this approach. As the industry embraces digital evolution, a grasp of these concepts is vital. BIM LOD ensures professionals can assess information reliability at different project stages. Understanding BIM Levels reveals the depth of BIM implementation, from basic 2D drafting to integrated 3D models. Join us in unraveling the complexities of BIM, simplifying each layer, and shedding light on practical applications that transform concepts into reality. Exploring BIM LOD, Levels, and LOI.
BIM LOD (Level of Development)
BIM Level of Development (LOD) signifies the completeness and detail of a Building Information Model (BIM) element throughout various construction phases. This widely accepted standard ensures clear communication among stakeholders, managing expectations regarding BIM data quality and maturity. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) define LOD levels, such as LOD 100, LOD 200, LOD 300, LOD 350, LOD 400, and LOD 500, each representing specific detail levels. LOD 350, an intermediate stage, bridges design and construction, facilitating trade coordination with defined interactions between building elements through graphics and written definitions.
LOD 100
Conceptual Design – Basic representations used to convey the overall shape, size, and location of elements. It provides a rough idea without specific dimensions or details.
LOD 200
Schematic Design – More detailed representations that include approximate dimensions, shapes, and locations of elements. This level is used to support design decisions.
LOD 300
Design Development – Accurate models that represent elements with specific/precise dimensions, shapes, quantities, and locations.
LOD 350
Construction Documentation/Construction Ready Model – The LOD 350 model provides a solid foundation for the coordination of systems and components by efficiently running clash detection programs, resolving them, and offering precise BIM coordination. It may not include every minute detail or fabrication-level information.
LOD 350 has been added as an intermediate level that strikes between design and construction to bridge the gap between and to better aid trade coordination, including better articulation of the connection between elements. This model explains the interaction between building elements through graphics and written definitions.
LOD 400
Construction Stage/Fabricated & Assembled model – Highly detailed models with specific assemblies, precise connections, and relevant metadata. This level is often used for fabrication and construction purposes.
LOD 500
As-Built or Facilities Management – Models that include actual data about the installed elements, suitable for facility management and maintenance.
BIM LOI (Level of Information)
BIM Level of Information (LOI), as designated by the BIM Forum, addresses non-graphical data’s appropriate detail, such as performance metrics and sustainability information, crucial for project efficiency and sustainability. Complementing LOD, LOI specifies the quality and reliability of information within a model’s metadata or asset tags. Unlike LOD’s focus on geometric and visual detail, LOI emphasizes the level of detail and accuracy in non-graphical data. This concept ensures that a BIM model not only visually represents elements but also contains rich, reliable data supporting design, construction, and facility management decisions.