Interscale Content Hub – BIM (building information modeling) offers a way to transform how we develop projects, but BIM isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Therefore, what are the 4 levels of BIM, and why should you care?
The four levels of BIM—Level 0, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3—represent a hierarchy of integration and collaboration in project management.
Level 0 signifies no collaboration and reliance on 2D CAD drafting. Level 1 introduces some 3D modelling and the beginning of data sharing.
Level 2 represents a more collaborative environment where different stakeholders work on separate models in a shared environment.
Finally, Level 3 BIM represents full integration and collaboration with all stakeholders working on a single, shared model, optimizing efficiency and decision-making throughout a project’s life cycle.
In Europe, BIM adoption varies significantly by country. For example, in the UK, BIM has reached Level 2, becoming mandatory for government projects since 2016, with a significant percentage of construction companies using the technology.
Germany also has high adoption rates, with Level 2 BIM being the most common. In contrast, other countries like Croatia and Russia are at earlier stages of BIM integration.
So, why should a small business owner care about advancing your BIM maturity? How does the milestone of the BIM level impact each decision making process?
Explanation of Each BIM Level
Before diving into the specific levels, let’s set the stage. BIM Levels define the depth of information sharing and collaboration enabled by BIM within a project.
The BIM levels are milestones – as you move up in levels, project processes become smoother, coordination improves, and potential benefits grow. Now, let’s look at each level in detail.
Level 0 BIM
Level 0 BIM represents the old construction method, where projects run primarily on 2D CAD drawings with limited data sharing.
There is no real collaboration, and 2D CAD drafting is predominantly used for production information.
This method relied primarily on paper or electronic prints for data exchange and had minimal interaction between various project stakeholders.
Level 0 BIM once met the industry’s needs but has yet to catch up due to advancements in digital collaboration.
The construction sector’s move toward digitalization and teamwork has outdated this basic level.
While this approach was the norm for decades, its limitations become clear when compared to the benefits of BIM:
- Inefficiency and Errors: With centralized information, changes one team makes might be reflected in another team’s drawings. This can lead to time wasted on rework and costly mistakes on the construction site.
- Limited Visualization: 2D drawings can be difficult to interpret, especially for clients or non-technical stakeholders. This can make communication challenging and increase the likelihood of misunderstandings.
- Missed Opportunities: The wealth of information embedded in a BIM model is simply impossible with 2D drawings alone. This means taking advantage of opportunities for better analysis and informed decision-making.
Now, most professionals adopt higher BIM levels to foster better collaboration and project efficiency.
The transition from Level 0 BIM to higher levels signifies shifting from isolated working methods towards more collaborative and integrated project delivery approaches.
The industry’s progression from Level 0 BIM, essentially a lack of BIM, highlights the evolution towards more sophisticated, efficient, and collaborative construction processes.
Adopting Level 0 BIM or its abandonment in favor of higher BIM levels significantly impacts project outcomes.
Advancing to higher BIM levels can foster better communication, reduce errors and rework, and enhance overall project efficiency.
Level 1 BIM
Level 1 BIM marks that first step away from purely 2D workflows. Teams might start using 3D models for design visualization, but the main documentation for construction still relies on 2D drawings.
You’ll see some basic digital collaboration through a Common Data Environment (CDE), essentially a shared project folder.
While Level 1 BIM ((building information modelling) marks progress from traditional 2D drafting, its potential for facilitating full-scale collaboration and integration across various project phases still needs to be utilized.
While there is an improvement over Level 0 with some information sharing, different disciplines might need to be fixed with the same model version. This can still lead to discrepancies and rework down the line.
The significance of moving beyond Level 1 lies in its limited capability to harness the full benefits of BIM, which are more pronounced at Levels 2 and 3, where deeper integration, collaboration, and information sharing occur.
The UK’s BIM mandate, which required at least Level 2 BIM for all government-funded projects from 2016, has significantly influenced BIM adoption rates and awareness across the country.
This policy has set a benchmark, demonstrating the government’s role in fostering technological advancement in the construction industry.
Despite this push towards higher BIM levels, some sectors, particularly SMEs, have experienced challenges in keeping pace with the adoption due to various factors such as cost, complexity, and resource limitations.
Instead of seeing Level 1 as the final goal, it’s best considered a transitional stage. Level 1 lays the foundation for better data management, which is essential for reaching higher BIM levels’ full collaborative potential.
To grasp the broader context, comparing BIM adoption in the UK with other European nations reveals a diverse landscape of implementation strategies and maturity levels.
Countries vary in their approach to BIM adoption, influenced by government mandates, industry readiness, and the availability of resources for technology integration.
Level 2 BIM
Level 2 BIM marks a significant advancement in construction project management. This level enhances data exchange, reduces misunderstandings, and minimizes errors.
Level 2 emphasizes collaborative work through interoperable 3D models and common file formats like IFC or COBie.
The UK, recognizing the substantial benefits of BIM, mandated Level 2 BIM for all government construction projects starting in April 2016, setting a precedent for its adoption across the construction industry.
Despite the clear advantages, the transition to Level 2 BIM has faced challenges, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
These challenges include a need for more awareness, significant investment in training and technology, and resistance to changing established workflows.
Larger companies have adopted BIM more readily than SMEs, partly due to resource disparities.
The construction industry needs inclusive strategies that address SMEs’ unique obstacles to achieve wider BIM adoption.
The impact of Level 2 BIM adoption has been significant, showing notable improvements in cost savings, time efficiency, and material usage on various projects.
For example, a 2018 PWC study in “BIM Level 2 Benefits Measurement Methodology” highlights that centralized BIM models have reduced the time spent searching for and sharing asset information by 70%.
BIM has also been suggested to save up to 64% of the time to complete cost and quantity estimation processes.
In one case, BIM models enabled an ice rink project to avoid purchasing surplus materials, preventing hundreds of tons of waste.
Arup built the Ice Arena Wales (IAW) in Cardiff Bay, a 3,000-seat ice rink, separate training rink and support facilities, and home to the Devils Ice Hockey Team.
During the design phase, BIM Level 2 was used to change the design/configuration of the internal blockwork partitions to reduce material waste from cutting the blocks.
Engineers used the parametric data from the BIM model to determine the optimal design.
These achievements underscore BIM’s potential to streamline project execution and optimize resource utilization.
However, the full benefits of BIM Level 2 are yet to be realized across the industry, with ongoing challenges in compliance and implementation.
Level 3 BIM
Level 3 BIM represents the cutting-edge of collaborative project delivery. At this level, everyone works seamlessly on a single, cloud-based model.
This ensures that everyone is always operating on the most up-to-date information. Real-time data exchange allows for immediate updates, enabling quick and informed decisions.
This model is accessible and modifiable by all stakeholders in real-time, greatly enhancing decision-making, reducing conflicts and rework, and supporting sustainable building practices.
The Crossrail project in London, one of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects, successfully implements the Level 3 BIM concept.
However, it’s important to note Malcolm Taylor’s technical paper “Crossrail Project: Application Of BIM (Building Information Modelling) And Lessons Learned” does not explicitly state that Level 3 BIM was fully implemented.
However, there are several concepts of BIM level 3 in the Crossrail project, such as using 3D models into 4D and 5D and utilizing newly available technologies to link information databases, together with Master Data Management.
Level 3 BIM centralized model improved coordination across numerous contractors and allowed for proactive problem-solving throughout the project.
While Level 3 BIM holds promise for the future, its widespread adoption is still in progress, especially when compared to Level 2 BIM.
The concept of Level 3 BIM expands on Level 2 by promoting integrated and interoperable workflows using a Common Data Environment (CDE).
It enables more detailed and cohesive asset management, encouraging a proactive approach that leverages data-driven insights.
The transition to Level 3 BIM also lays the groundwork for further advancements like digital twins and smart city applications, offering a holistic view and management of built environments on a larger scale.
The progression toward Level 3 BIM aligns with the broader industry shift toward digitalization, as evidenced by various global initiatives and national strategies.
For instance, the UK’s endorsement of BIM Level 2 mandates for public sector projects has paved the way for heightened awareness and adoption across the industry, setting a benchmark for other nations.
However, despite these advancements, the industry continues to grapple with challenges such as data interoperability, cultural adaptation, and the technical nuances of transitioning to a fully digital workflow.
Comparison of BIM Levels
Moving from BIM Level 0 to Level 3 represents a paradigm shift from minimal collaboration to a highly integrated, collaborative process.
Each level represents a more sophisticated use of technology that promotes better communication and efficiency across all project lifecycles. Here is a basic comparison table.
BIM Level 0
2D CAD, minimal data, No collaboration, Paper-based or electronic prints, no common standards, Initial digital step, but limited integration and collaboration.
BIM Level 1
Mixed 2D/3D CAD, Limited collaboration, Common Data Environment (CDE) for data sharing, Improved data sharing, a stepping stone towards full BIM adoption.
BIM Level 2
Detailed 3D models, Full collaboration on separate models, Federated models, interoperable data exchange, Enhanced project coordination, reduced errors and reworks.
BIM Level 3
Integrated data and 3D models, Full integration and collaboration on a unified model, Real-time data sharing, cloud-based collaboration, Optimized efficiency, improved decision-making, and lifecycle management.
Benefits of Implementing Higher BIM Levels
Embracing higher BIM levels isn’t just about technology – it’s a sound business decision. Here’s why small businesses like yours can reap significant rewards:
- Smooth and streamlined: Improved collaboration means architects, engineers, and builders work from the same up-to-date information. This reduces misunderstandings and cuts down on frustrating back-and-forth.
- Minimize mistakes: BIM’s clash detection can save you headaches (and money!). Problems are spotted virtually, long before they become costly rework on site.
- Predictable projects: With fewer surprises, you’ll gain better control over schedules and budgets. Clients appreciate when projects are on time and within expectations.
- Beyond building: That rich BIM model carries value even after the project ends. Owners can use it to streamline maintenance and track the building’s performance over its lifespan.
- Competitive edge: Many government contracts now mandate BIM capabilities. Investing in BIM opens up new opportunities and keeps you competitive in bidding processes.
Ready to make this leap but not sure where to start? Let’s start considering Interscale as your BIM management partner.
We specialize in helping businesses of all sizes navigate the complexities of BIM implementation.
Our experts guide you towards solutions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring maximum return on your BIM investment.
So start by finding out how we can be the supporting system for your project – visit Interscale’s BIM Management Services.
Conclusion
For small businesses in the construction world, getting on board with BIM is a serious game-changer.
Each BIM level acts as a stepping stone toward smoother project delivery.
Every step up means less wasted time, better teamwork among everyone involved, and a happier client at the end of the day.
Understanding what are the 4 levels of BIM helps your business work smarter, stay competitive, and build a reputation for doing things right.
