LOD 200 vs LOD 300 vs LOD 400

LOD 200: approximate systems and intent

At LOD 200, elements generally communicate approximate size, shape, location and orientation. The model is useful for design development, spatial coordination and early visualization, but dimensions and interfaces may still change.

It is usually inappropriate to assume that every modeled component at this stage contains fabrication-level information.

LOD 300: defined geometry for coordination

LOD 300 typically represents elements with more specific quantity, size, shape, location and orientation so that information can be measured from the model within the defined scope. It is commonly associated with developed design and coordinated documentation.

The model still requires clear responsibility boundaries and should not be treated as fabrication information simply because it appears detailed.

LOD 400: fabrication and assembly information

LOD 400 is associated with information developed enough for fabrication, assembly or installation for the relevant elements. This level is often created by specialist contractors, fabricators or trade partners rather than the architectural design team alone.

Requesting LOD 400 for an entire building without a clear use case can create large amounts of unnecessary work and cost.

Define model use, not only a number

A useful BIM execution brief identifies which elements need which development, the intended model uses, expected information fields, software version, coordination process and acceptance criteria. A single global LOD number is rarely enough to define a complex model reliably.