Level of Information (LOI) in Building Information Modeling (BIM) refers to the richness and completeness of non-geometric data associated with model elements or objects at a given project stage.
While Level of Development (LOD) defines the degree of geometric detailing in the 3D model, LOI specifies the quality and extent of supplemental information embedded within those model components.
LOI covers various non-graphical properties and attributes such as materials, technical specifications, costs, manufacturer details, maintenance requirements and other pertinent data needed for analysis, fabrication and facility management.
For example, a model element with high LOI may contain comprehensive information like material strength, thermal properties, vendor pricing, availability, installation instructions and more.
Establishing the appropriate LOI requirements, along with LOD, is crucial for ensuring the BIM models contain all the relevant information necessary for informed decision-making during design, construction and operations phases.
LOI works in tandem with LOD - adequate geometric representation (high LOD) combined with extensive data richness (high LOI) enables the full potential of BIM to be realized through enhanced coordination, analysis, cost estimation and asset management.
Clearly defining and meeting target LOI levels allows project teams to manage expectations, improve communication, and optimize information exchange efficiently throughout the BIM process.
