BIM (Building Information Modeling) has become an integral part of the construction industry, allowing teams to collaborate effectively and improve project outcomes.
However, to ensure the success of a BIM project, it is crucial to understand the Level of Information Need (LOIN) for each project stage and stakeholder involved.
In this blog post, we will explore the concept of Level of Information Need in BIM projects, how it can be applied and what BIM software can simplify your implementation.
The Importance of Preparation
Before diving into Level of Information Need, it is essential to emphasize the importance of preparation and following the principles of openBIM.
To prepare for a successful BIM project, asking questions such as “Why are we doing BIM?” and “What is the information needed for?” is essential.
Defining the purpose, milestones, stakeholders, and required objects will lay a solid foundation for the project.
🎥 Level of Information Need intro video
Understanding LOIN
LOIN, or Level of Information Need, is a framework that groups requirements related to geometry, information and documentation in BIM projects.
It provides a structured approach to define the level of detail, dimensionality, location, appearance, parametric behavior, accuracy, and reliability of model elements.
By understanding LOIN, teams can communicate and automate the checking of these requirements, leading to more efficient collaboration and project delivery.
The Evolution of LOD
For a long time, there has been confusion surrounding the Level of Detail (LOD) or Level of Development (LOD) and even Level of Design (also LOD!) terminology in BIM projects.
To address this, the new LOIN framework enhances the concepts of LOD and provides more precise definitions for requirements.
While the LOD scale from LOD 100 to LOD 500 points teams in the right direction, it is not detailed enough to execute projects without additional guidance.
The LOIN framework aims to make requirement definitions clearer and more comprehensive, aligning with the purpose and milestones of the project.
Applying LOIN in Practice
Let’s break down the key elements of LOIN and how they contribute to successful BIM projects:
Detail
The level of detail required for model elements varies depending on the purpose of the information. Whether it is symbolic representation, generic representation, detailed representation, or fabrication level, understanding the required level of detail sets the stage for efficient modeling and reduced costs.
Dimensionality
Determining whether an object needs to be represented in 2D or 3D has a significant impact on the amount of time and effort required for modeling. Clear specifications regarding dimensionality enable teams to allocate resources effectively and ensure accurate representation within the model.
Location
Describing the location of objects within the model is vital for effective coordination and understanding. Whether an object is associated with another object or requires a specific spatial relationship, defining location requirements ensures accurate representation within the model.
Appearance
The appearance of objects, including their color, translucency, and reflectivity, can vary depending on the project’s needs. While some objects may only require symbolic representation, others may require realistic rendering to aid in visualization and decision-making.
Parametric Behavior
Some objects may require specific parametric behaviors, allowing for manipulation and dynamic changes within the model. Defining parametric requirements ensures that objects behave as intended and meets the project’s needs.
Accuracy and Reliability
The accuracy and reliability of geometric information within the model are critical for decision-making and downstream processes.
By specifying accuracy requirements and providing reliable information, teams can ensure that the model aligns with project expectations and the deliverables can be used for their intended purpose.
Information
Identifying the required information for each model element is essential to avoid wasted effort for the project delivery team.
This includes not only the breakdown structure and coding system but could also be warranty details, points of contact, and identification methods – such as if a barcode should be added to the physical asset or not.
Documentation
The importance of project documentation is arguably the most critical aspect that will help to guarantee the capturing, organizing, and providing of valuable information to the right project teams in a useable format.
By establishing precise and concise documentation requirements, project teams can ensure the timely delivery of the required documents.
Leveraging Technology for LOIN Implementation
Implementing LOIN effectively requires a robust and structured framework.
While spreadsheets have traditionally been used for this purpose, limitations in their visual nature and data handling capabilities make it challenging to gather and track information effectively.
To overcome these limitations, leveraging specialized BIM software, such as Plannerly, can simplify the LOIN implementation process.
Plannerly allows teams to create containers of requirements, assign responsibilities, and track activities in a structured and intuitive manner.
With features such as human and machine-readable information requirements, file management, audit logs, and project communication tools, Plannerly becomes a centralized hub for all LOIN-related information and management.
The great part is Plannerly also supports other BIM standards like BIM Forum LOD in addition to ISO 19650 standards too:
Conclusion
Understanding the Level of Information Need (LOIN) framework is crucial for successful BIM projects.
By defining requirements related to detail, dimensionality, location, appearance, parametric behavior, accuracy, reliability, information, and documentation, teams can effectively communicate and collaborate throughout the project lifecycle.
Leveraging specialized software like Plannerly empowers teams to implement LOIN in a structured and streamlined manner, enhancing project delivery and success.
With a solid understanding of LOIN and the right tools in place, BIM projects can achieve their full potential and drive innovation in the construction industry.
Did you know that Plannerly (The BIM Management Platform) is FREE TO JOIN?
Did you sign up yet?:
Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳
1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵
- A BIM MANAGER’S PERSPECTIVE TO OPTIMIZING BIM PROCESSES WITH PLANNERLY
- FROM CHAOS TO CLARITY: SIMPLIFYING ISO 19650 AND/OR BIMFORUM LOD SCOPING
- HOW TO CREATE PROFESSIONAL DOCUMENTS EASILY WITH PLANNERLY TEMPLATES (PIR, EIR, BEP, ETC.)
2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥
Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:
3. Answers to some related questions 🤔
What is LOIN BIM/Level of Information Need?
LOIN stands for Level of Information Need. It refers to the required level of geometry, information and documentation for a design and construction project.
Why is Level of Information Needed in BIM important?
Developing a comprehensive plan with the necessary Level of Information Need (LOIN) for each project stage is paramount. This approach establishes a foundation for streamlined modeling, cost reduction, and precise representation in the model.
How does dimensionality impact Level of Information Need?
Determining whether an object needs to be represented in 2D or 3D affects the time and effort required for modeling. Clear specifications regarding dimensionality help allocate resources effectively.
Why is defining location important in Level of Information Need?
Describing the location of objects within the model enables effective coordination and understanding, ensuring accurate representation and spatial relationships.
How does appearance factor into Level of Information Need?
The appearance of objects, including color and reflectivity, can vary depending on project needs. Determining the required level of detail helps visualize and make decisions.
What are parametric behaviors in Level of Information Need?
Some objects require specific parametric behaviors, allowing for manipulation and dynamic changes within the model. Defining these requirements ensures objects behave as intended.
How does accuracy and reliability influence Level of Information Need?
Ensuring accurate geometric information within the model is critical for decision-making and downstream processes. Defining accuracy requirements aligns the model with project expectations.
What role does information and documentation play in Level of Information Need?
Identifying the required information and documentation required from each model element and project task will help to facilitate effective communication and coordination throughout the project.
What BIM software can assist in Level of Information Need implementation?
Specialized software, such as Plannerly, streamlines the implementation process of the Level of Information Need (LOIN). It offers a compliant software framework and a centralized hub for requirements setting, communication, and activity tracking.
Why is understanding LOIN important for BIM projects?
Understanding LOIN helps teams communicate, collaborate, and deliver successful BIM projects with less wasted effort and rework. It ensures that the requirements have customers behind them and the project potential is maximized to drive the correct information delivered at the right time in the project.
I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.
Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!
To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!
