What is LOD? LOD stands for Level of Detail in a model, also referred to as Level of Details or Level of Development. It describes the stages of a BIM model component, ranging from the lowest level of approximate conceptualization to the highest level of accurate demonstration.
How is LOD categorized? It is divided into five levels, from conceptual design to final design, which comprehensively cover the entire modeling process. To allow for future expansion, these levels are numbered from 100 to 500, as follows:
The levels of detail are defined as:
100. Conceptual conceptualization
200. Approximate geometry and components (schematic and preliminary design)
300. Precise geometry components (construction and detailed drawings)
400. Fabrication and installation
500. As-built completion
LOD 100 is equivalent to the conceptual design phase. At this stage, the model typically represents the building’s overall form, including its massing, orientation, and estimated cost per square meter.
LOD 200 corresponds to schematic or preliminary design. The model includes general systems with approximate quantities, sizes, shapes, locations, and orientations. LOD 200 models are commonly used for system analysis and general performance evaluations.
LOD 300 aligns with traditional construction drawings and detailed design phases. This level is widely used for cost estimation, construction coordination, clash detection, scheduling, and visualization. The model should include detailed component properties and parameters as required by the owner’s BIM submission standards.
LOD 400 is suitable for fabrication and installation purposes. Models at this level are often used by subcontractors and manufacturers to process and produce project components, including systems for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.
LOD 500 represents the as-built condition of the project. This final model is integrated into the building’s operation and maintenance system as a central database. It includes all component parameters and properties specified in the owner’s BIM submission guidelines.
With this overview, you should now have a basic understanding of what LOD represents. However, distinguishing these levels in practice requires hands-on experience and application in real projects.
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