What is LOD100-600 and what does it mean?

LOD (Level Of Development or Level Of Detail) is an acronym used within the industry to explain the level of detail a project will need to achieve to meet the requirements of the client, this is normally outlined within the specification. Depending on which level of LOD is required will also govern the cost of the project to ensure all requirement are meet.

Below is a quick break down of what each LOD level represents and what is involved to ensure it meets basic requirements.

LOD 100:

• An LOD 100 model shows the basic representation of the design with the use of either symbols or generic models/ elements to depict equipment or fitting locations.
• Will also have minimum detail (maybe sizes of key objects and some equipment names).
• Objects such as pipes, ductwork and cable tray will be drawing with a single line.
• With this LOD you can analysis the basic design and start to calculate rough costings and/ or start to form pricing schedules.

LOD 200:

• An LOD 200 have more detail add than a LOD 100 model (few sizes of key objects and equipment names).
• Will have a better representation of objects with approximate sizes, shape, orientation and locations.
• Objects such as pipes, ductwork and cable tray will most likely been drawn in either a single line or double line.

LOD 300:

• An LOD 300 model will have all detail required to start shop drawing phase (e.g. sizes, equipment names, section, basic schedules, schematics, etc.).
• All elements will be modelled either in 2D or 3D.
• This model will be the best to use for pricing & estimating prior to construction/ shop drawing commencement.
• Coordination may also be carried out at this time between the services.

LOD 400:

• An LOD 400 model will have all elements accounted for with either a 3D representation or a detail.
• All Installation and manufacturing information will be on the drawing/ model.
• Full coordination between all services will be carried out.

LOD 500:

• An LOD 500 model will show the true representation on site after all work is completed.
• All “AS INSTALLED” notes in relation to the element/ objects will be placed on the drawing.
• This model will be used for commissioning & handed over to the client.

LOD 600:

• An LOD 600 is only used for facility management proposes.
• Cert elements within this model will have information about its life cycle, maintenance requirements, ID numbers, Manufacture, type and any other information the client has requested for.
• This model will be used by the building supervisor/ maintenance crew.