LOD in BIM simplified

In the AEC industry, effective delivery of large-scale projects often hinges on the strategic use of Building Information Modeling (BIM). A key element of BIM is the concept of Level of Development (LOD), which defines the depth of information and accuracy represented in a model as a project moves from conception to completion. 

So, what exactly is LOD in BIM? Let's find out! 

What to expect in this article? 

• What is LOD in BIM? 

• Understanding BIM in different project stages — SD, DD, and CDs 

• What we at SPA do — an example of a project we have worked on 

• How to choose the right LOD for your BIM project? 

• Benefits of using LOD framework in BIM 

What is Level of Development (LOD) in BIM? 

Introduced by the American Institute of Architecture in 2008, the LOD framework defines five numerical stages — LOD 100, LOD 200, LOD 300, LOD 350, and LOD 500 that represent a project’s progression from conceptual design to construction and operational readiness. In 2013, the framework was updated to refine the completeness and detail of model elements and their associated information.  

Simply put, LOD in BIM is a standardized framework that defines both the geometric and the non-geometric aspects of the building elements throughout the project lifecycle. 

For instance, let’s take an example from the field of architecture: 

Geometric detail: 

At an early stage, say LOD 100, the wall might be represented by a simple line or a block indicating its appropriate location and orientation. 

But as the project develops to say, LOD 300, the sketch of the same wall will now contain more details like for example its precise dimensions, its height, thickness, and exact placement within the building. It might even show openings for doors or windows in the correct positions and details. 

Non-geometric details: 

These include things like the type of material (e.g., brick, concrete, or drywall), its fire rating, insulation properties, and acoustic performance. 

At LOD 300, this information becomes even more refined. For example, the wall might be tagged with a specific product code, installation guidelines, and maintenance schedules. 

Let’s take another example from mechanical engineering, this time focusing on an HVAC duct: 

Geometric detail: 

At a lower LOD, it might be represented as a simple duct or a pipe showing the general path running from one area to another. 

At a higher LOD, the duct model could include other details like the exact dimensions, bend angles, connection details, and how it interacts with other building systems. 

Non-geometric details: 

The duct can contain details like the material type, insulation properties, airflow capacity, manufacturer details, and installation dates. 

This data is important for performance analysis and later facility management. 

By standardizing these details, LOD helps every stakeholder involved in the project — whether they are architects, engineers, contractors, or facility managers — know exactly what to expect from the model at each stage. This clarity reduces miscommunication and errors and supports everything from early design and cost estimation to construction and long-term maintenance. 

Understanding LOD in different project stages — SD, DD, and CD 

The table below outlines the typical LOD expectations at each stage: 

What we do at SPA 

At SPA, we take great pride in our ability to deliver high-quality BIM models ranging from LOD 100 to LOD 500 across various trades, including Architecture, Structure, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire Protection. 

Below is an overview of one of the projects that we worked on. 

• Project type: Mixed-use (Hotel and residential) 

• Structure: Multi-Storey - 22 levels 

• Total area: 600,000 Sq. ft 

• Timeline: May 2021 - present 

• Discipline: Architecture 

LOD mapping across project stages: 

Want to know more about what we do at SPA? DM or email us at info@studioparametric.com. We would be happy to share our case studies with you.  

What are some benefits of using LOD in AEC? 

Here are some key benefits: 

• Enhanced communication 

• Improved coordination 

• Precision in design and documentation 

• Accurate cost estimation and quantity take-off 

• Support for prefabrication and modularization 

• Effective facility management 

Choosing the right LOD for your BIM project 

Selecting the right LOD for your BIM project depends on 3 key factors: 

(1) Project Scope:  

This determines the level of detail and accuracy required. 

• Smaller projects or conceptual studies often require only LOD 100 – 200, focusing on basic massing, spatial relationships, and overall design intent.  

• Complex projects (e.g., hospitals and Multifamily Homes, commercial spaces) typically require LOD 300 – 400 to ensure detailed design, interdisciplinary coordination, and fabrication-level accuracy.  

(2) Stakeholder needs:  

Different stakeholders require varying levels of detail from the BIM model. 

• Owners and facility managers typically require LOD 500 for accurate as-built documentation and facility management purposes. 

• Contractors and fabricators typically require LOD 350 – 400 to produce precise construction documents, shop drawings, and installation models. 

• Early design teams often use LOD 200 – 300 for conceptual development, spatial planning, and clash detection.  

(3) Regulatory Requirements:  

Building codes and permitting authorities sometimes set minimum LOD requirements to verify compliance with safety, accessibility, and performance standards. 

• International standards, such as ISO 19650, guide BIM management and influence LOD levels. 

• In the U.S., the IBC requires structural models to reach at least LOD 300 for load-bearing details. 

• NFPA codes demand LOD 350 – 400 for fire protection systems, while ADA mandates a minimum of LOD 300 for accessibility. 

• Energy efficiency standards, including IECC and Title 24, require LOD 300 – 400 for accurate envelope and HVAC data. 

• Additionally, GSA guidelines mandate LOD 500 for facility management, and LEED certifications encourage higher LOD for sustainability. 

By considering these factors, BIM models can consistently provide detailed, verifiable information that supports safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability throughout the project lifecycle. 

Conclusion 

LOD is a very crucial framework required by architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers for successful project delivery and execution. By defining the level of development, LOD ensures consistency across different trades and project stages. 

📌Authored by Jarrold Jainth, Vaibhavi Sejpal & Aishwarya D S | Edited by Anuj Victor

References:  

• https://www.autodesk.com/ca-en/solutions/bim-levels-of-development  

• https://www.virtualbuildingstudio.com/blog/bim-level-of-development-an-overview/