Understanding Levels of Development
The Level of Development (LOD) defines how much information is included within a BIM model at different stages of a project.
As a project progresses, the model evolves from simple conceptual geometry through to highly detailed, survey-verified representations suitable for coordination, construction and asset management.
The examples below illustrate how the same project may be modelled at different Levels of Development.
More detail doesn’t always mean more value.
The appropriate Level of Development depends on how the model will be used.
A feasibility study doesn’t require fabrication-level detail, just as construction coordination demands more information than concept design.
Our role is to recommend the Level of Development that delivers the greatest value for your project, providing the information you need, without paying for information you don’t.
| LOD (Level of Development) | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| LOD 100 | Concept planning and massing |
| LOD 200 | Schematic design |
| LOD 300 | Design development and documentation |
| LOD 400 | Fabrication and construction where required |
We model with purpose.
Rather than simply producing the highest possible level of detail, we recommend the LOD that best supports your project objectives.
Whether you’re undertaking feasibility studies, design development, consultant coordination or construction documentation, we deliver models that are fit for purpose and aligned with your project requirements.
This approach helps reduce unnecessary modelling costs while ensuring consultants receive the information they actually need.
Built for your Australian project
CMS follows recognised Australian BIM practices and project requirements.
Our modelling workflows align with:
NATSPEC BIM Guidelines
We adopt the practical BIM workflows and documentation standards widely used across Australian construction projects.
Quality, Safety, Environment
We are certified to the international standards for Quality, Safety and Environmental Management Systems.
Client BIM Requirements
Where required, we model in accordance with:
Every project is different, so our models are configured to meet the agreed project requirements.
The CMS Modelling Standard
Standards tell you how information is managed.
Our standards define how we deliver confidence.
Every model we produce is assessed against five internal quality principles.
Delivering certainty
At CMS Surveyors, our goal isn’t simply to deliver a BIM model.
It’s to provide project teams with reliable information they can confidently design, coordinate and build from.
Because when the information is right from the beginning, every stage that follows becomes easier.
Trusted survey information, delivered by experienced professionals.
CMS Surveyors partners with architects, builders, engineers and consultants to provide clear, reliable spatial information that helps projects move forward with confidence – from early feasibility and DA stages through to construction and delivery.
As a Sydney-based team, we’re accessible, responsive and easy to work with. Whether it’s diving into the details on-site, workshopping a detail over Teams or collaborating closely with your broader consultant team, we stay involved and supportive throughout the life of the project. We’ll reduce uncertainty, avoid costly surprises and keep your vision on track.
