BIM academy · L2 Awareness · 9 hours
BIM awareness: read a model and a standard
Open a shared model, move around it, read its data and understand what LOD means.
task, condition, standard
What you will be able to do
- Task. Open a campus model, find three elements and read their codes and levels of development.
- Condition. A small shared model of a two-storey campus, in an open format, on any viewer.
- Standard. Three elements found with the right code, size and LOD stated.
four modules
Modules, with worked examples
Module 1: Model viewers and open formats (2 h; Describe)
- An open format lets any team open the same file.
- A viewer lets you walk, section and measure without changing the model.
- Keep your own notes in a separate issue list.
Worked example. Open the campus model and take a section through the stair to read its width.
Activity. Take a section and read one measurement.
Standard. One correct measurement stated.
Module 2: Element codes and names (2 h; Apply)
- Every element has a code like CS-IN-01 and a plain name.
- Codes make lists and quantities clean.
- The code tells you the group: shell, interior, furniture or services.
Worked example. CS-SH-03 is a straight stair. CS-IN-02 is a frameless glass partition.
Activity. Find five elements and write their codes.
Standard. Five codes written correctly.
Module 3: Levels of development (2.5 h; Explain)
- LOD 100 is a symbol. LOD 200 is generic. LOD 300 is precise. LOD 350 coordinates. LOD 400 fabricates. LOD 500 is as built.
- More detail is not always better. Add detail when the decision needs it.
- Every element states its level.
Worked example. A phone booth at LOD 200 is a box of the right size. At LOD 400 it has its panels, fixings and fan listed.
Activity. Write which LOD you need to decide where a stair goes.
Standard. LOD 200 or 300 chosen with a reason.
Module 4: Reading quantities and schedules (2.5 h; Interpret)
- A schedule is a table made from the model.
- Area, length and count are the three basic measures.
- Check a quantity by hand once, so you trust the schedule.
Worked example. Count the meeting pods in the model, then in the schedule. They must match.
Activity. Count five items in the model and compare with the schedule.
Standard. Five counts match.
five checks
Check yourself
Think of your answer first, then open the question.
Q1. What does an open format allow?
Model answer. Any team can open the same file.
Q2. What does CS-IN-01 tell you?
Model answer. The element is an interior item: an acoustic drywall partition, full height.
Q3. Give the six levels of development in order.
Model answer. LOD 100, 200, 300, 350, 400, 500: concept, generic, precise, coordinated, fabrication, as built.
Q4. Why is more detail not always better?
Model answer. Extra detail costs time. Add it only when a decision needs it.
Q5. How do you trust a schedule?
Model answer. Check one quantity by hand against the model.
where this takes you
Jobs this supports
- BIM assistant. Keeps the issue list and checks names and codes.
- Quantity checker. Reads schedules and flags mismatches.
ladder L1 to L7
The seven levels
Step in at your level and move up. Credits stack.
- L1 Basic: Buildings and models: the basics
- L2 Awareness: BIM awareness: read a model and a standard (you are here)
- L3 Foundation: Model a campus module to LOD 200
- L4 Practitioner: Coordinate trades and take off quantities (LOD 300)
- L5 Specialist: Fabrication models, programme and cost (LOD 350 to 400)
- L6 Advanced: Lead a BIM project: plans, rules and audits
- L7 Super expert: Campus network standards and digital twins
Learning material, not a design or safety instruction. Real buildings are designed and signed off by licensed professionals under local rules.