A guide to understanding BIM standards: BIM Levels and Global BIM standards

Hello, BIM enthusiasts!
If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head at the mysterious acronym BIM or wondered what everyone is talking about when they mention BIM standards, then this blog post is for you! In this beginner’s guide, we’ll dive headfirst into the world of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and uncover the secrets behind those elusive BIM standards. No fancy jargon or complex technicalities here—just a down-to-earth explanation of what BIM is, why it’s so important, and how these standards play a crucial role in the construction industry. So, grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s unravel the captivating world of BIM together!

Introduction to BIM and BIM Standards

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized the construction industry by providing a digital representation of a building’s structural and functional elements throughout its design, construction, and operation phases. Its ability to facilitate collaboration, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs across a building’s lifecycle has made it essential in modern projects. BIM enables architects, designers, engineers, BIM modelers, contractors, developers, and other stakeholders to rely on a single source of truth—coordinating planning, design, and construction.

Importance of BIM Standards

To achieve global consistency and interoperability in BIM practices, global BIM standards provide a unified framework for collaboration and data exchange. By adhering to common standards, teams can share information seamlessly across organizations and borders, maintaining consistency, reducing errors, and future-proofing deliverables to integrate with emerging tools and technologies.

Why is it crucial for BIM professionals to know about BIM Standards?

BIM standards establish a structured way to classify and exchange information used to develop BIM models. They define BIM maturity levels and concepts like LOD/LOI, enabling practitioners to align with global expectations, coordinate effectively, and ensure accurate design and smooth handovers. With standardized data formats and processes, dispersed teams can collaborate reliably on the same project.

Global BIM standards

There isn’t a single worldwide BIM standard, but several are widely used to promote consistent practices and interoperability:

• ISO 19650 series: Guidelines for organizing and digitizing information about buildings and civil works across the entire lifecycle (e.g., ISO 19650-1/-2).
• COBie (Construction Operations Building Information Exchange): A structured format for exchanging facility management data between design and construction teams.
• IFC (Industry Foundation Classes): Open, neutral schema by buildingSMART for exchanging BIM data and ensuring software interoperability.
• BIMForum LOD Specifications: Defines Levels of Development (LOD 100–500) to set the expected detail and information at project stages.
• UK BIM Framework: Guidance and standards (evolved from PAS 1192) for workflows and information management in the UK.
• Singapore BIM Guide: e-submission requirements and guidance on LOD, deliverables, and data exchange.
• NBIMS-US (National BIM Standard – United States): Guidance for information exchange, interoperability, and best practices in the U.S.

BIM LOD and other acronyms

The world of BIM includes many acronyms—here are the key ones clarified:

• LOD: Level of Detail (visual/detail richness) vs. Level of Development (U.S. usage; the agreed reliability and completeness of a model element at a milestone). Don’t confuse the two terms.
• LOI: Level of Information—how much non-graphical data (properties, specs, performance) is attached at each stage.
• LOMD (UK): Level of Model Definition—often expressed as LOMD = LOD + LOI, combining graphical and non-graphical needs per stage.
• LOIN: Level of Information Need (ISO 19650)—focuses on specifying only the information required for a purpose, avoiding excessive or irrelevant data production.

With BS EN ISO 19650 superseding PAS 1192, many legacy terms (LOMD, LOD, LOI in the UK context) are being streamlined under LOIN to align internationally and reduce confusion.

Putting it together

BIM standards make it easier to store, search, share, and trust critical building information. With LOD/LOI/LOIN and BIM maturity levels properly integrated into practice, teams collaborate confidently and make informed decisions at every stage—improving quality and reducing cost over time. Global alignment paves the way for a more cohesive, efficient construction industry.

Conclusion

Understanding BIM standards doesn’t have to be intimidating. You’ve now seen what BIM is, why it matters, and how standards enable seamless collaboration and productivity. Whether you’re a construction professional or simply curious, use this foundation to explore deeper. Embrace what BIM offers—and let standard-driven practices empower your future projects.