WHAT IS LOD (LEVEL OF DETAIL) IN BIM?
Tags: bim, aec, 3dmodeling, lod
Published: 2024-03-06 17:43:14

**A complete description of the Levels of Detail of BIM in AEC.**
 

BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology is used by more and more companies in the construction industry around the world. Its advantages are undeniable. But for its effective implementation and application, it is necessary to understand the main aspects. One of the standards that can be always heard when implementing a BIM project is LOD. This is what we want to talk about today. What it is, what are the levels of detail, and why do you need to be well-versed in them?

LOD (Level of Detail) is a standard that defines the 3D geometry requirements that must be achieved. But, in addition to 3D visualization, this also includes filling each element with information. This is one of the foundations of BIM, and anyone related to the project must have the opportunity to obtain the necessary information about any element. 

**Advantages of LOD**
 
This standard facilitates communication between AEC industry professionals and modeling experts by using it to determine the level of completion and detail of each element in a design. This process is designed to increase the level of communication and understanding of a project between architects, engineers, contractors, project managers, and owners.

In addition to communication, when choosing the LOD level, all specialists understand what to expect and how much needs to be implemented. This makes it possible to make forecasts and plan the volume of work. Depending on the stage of construction, the level of detail may change.

The [BIMPROVE](https://bim-prove.com/) team has a lot of experience, so we do know that you should not use LOD 500 during the initial stage, as it doesn’t make sense and will only cause a big waste of budget. In other cases, such as after scanning a building, LOD 350 may be required to complete the picture. This choice will be logical and will bring much more benefit. But it all depends on the conditions of the project and the further use of the model.

If you need a modeling service, our consultants will promptly help you. Use our Estimates form and receive your results within one working day.

**Where was it formed?**

The concept of LOD was first formed by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), which represents more than 8,000 construction industry professionals, and the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), in the US. They collectively produced and developed the structural standard that is used now to define the level of detail and information in a BIM model throughout the various stages of a construction project.

This document was not the very first mention of LOD in the broader sense, but this standard specifically played a key role in establishing a widely known framework for LOD.

**What are the LOD levels?**
 
BIM’s Level of Detail (LOD) serves as a standard, defining 3D geometry requirements for different projects and needs. Starting with a very basic representation at LOD 100, it’s growing to as-built elements at LOD 500. LOD plays a crucial role in enhancing productive communication and helping with a faster decision-making process by specifying information at various stages of a construction project.


**BIM LOD 100** The LOD100 model is used to depict a large area, that only has the total volume of the building. Designing walls, floors, and roofs in Revit or managing the LOD in ArchiCAD would be sufficient and would take a little time for one building. This LOD type is quite conceptual, as it is often used in early design stages.

Important aspects:

- Length
- Width
- Height
- Volume
- Area

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0694xw2j1xjjtslddvpx.png)

**BIM LOD 200.** The LOD200 model is often called “an approximate geometry”. Common elements represent the shape and size of elements, with approximate quantities and dimensions. 

Important aspects:

- Length
- Width
- Height
- Volume
- Area
- Shape
- Orientation
Window and door openings are displayed. Railings are matched in height. 


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/ax8vigkp34fkifc85csn.png)

**BIM LOD 300.**  Creating the LOD300 model is commonly referred to as the “project development phase”, or a “precise geometry”, where we create scalable 3D models in Revit with all systems and spaces. We begin to implement exact object dimensions and their precise positioning in a project we’re working on.

Important aspects:

- Length
- Width
- Height
- Volume
- Area
- Shape
- Orientation
- Material
- Color

Doors and windows are displayed with the necessary frames, panels, handles, and more. Ceilings have the right thickness, material, or pattern. Railings are displayed with all necessary poles and rails. The model can be used to prepare project documentation.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/vm9f1dkfqdyl75nryhuu.png)
**BIM LOD 350.** During the LOD 350 phase of a project, the design adds additional construction documentation detail, such as connections, and fabrication, to show how a particular element works with different systems.


**BIM LOD 400-500. **Both of these levels represent the model in the “as-built” condition, where the specific details are included for the fabrication, assembly, and production of the elements and their actual functions in the actual building.

Important aspects:

- Length
- Width
- Height
- Volume
- Area
- Shape
- Orientation
- Material
- Color
Types, marks, and types of mounting. A model can be used during the operation phase.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/6c9ujghk9w6jovpoh54s.png)

**What are the benefits of Level of Detail?**

There are numerous benefits of Level of Detail in construction. Here are some key advantages:

LOD provides a standardized framework for communicating the LOD in a BIM model. This clarity ensures that all project stakeholders have a shared understanding of the model’s development stage. 

It encourages collaboration among various disciplines involved in a project. Each team can contribute and access information at a level of detail that aligns with their specific needs, promoting efficient teamwork.

LOD helps identify potential issues early in the project lifecycle. Detecting and resolving problems at lower LODs minimize the risk of errors carrying forward to later, more costly stages of construction.

Clients can visualize and understand the evolving project better with increasing LODs. This transparency stimulates client confidence and satisfaction throughout the design and construction phases.

In essence, the structured approach of LOD is a cornerstone in leveraging the full potential of BIM for enhanced collaboration, informed decision-making, and successful project outcomes. 

**What does LOD mean in construction?**

In construction, Level of Detail refers to the precision present in the BIM at various stages of its development. This helps stakeholders understand the model’s reliability and how far it is completed at different project phases.

LOD functions, as a mix of specifications, empowering building industry professionals to effectively record, articulate, and define BIM content. As an industrial standard, LOD enables architects, engineers, and many other specialists to communicate clearly about the information authenticity tied to model elements, easier, faster and more efficient project implementation. Additionally, LOD serves as a course of required service level, with less work needed for a basic LOD 100 model compared to a more precise LOD 300 model.

**Conclusion**

LOD is a language for all interested parties working with a BIM project. As stated before, it simplifies the communication process, makes it easier to understand, and increases consistency among all specialists. The level of detail is not a recommendation, it is a standard that must be implemented, so your project will be completed efficiently and on budget.

But remember, every project has different requirements, so if you have any doubts, it’s best to turn to the experts. BIM companies will be able to advise you and make an economically correct and effective decision.

[Contact us](https://bim-prove.com/contact) if you have any questions.