Article 3 -Five Levels of Development ("LOD"

LOD 100 –conceptual

LOD 200 –approximate geometry

LOD 300 –precise geometry

LOD 400 –fabrication

LOD 500 –as built

LOD 100 - Essentially the equivalent of conceptual design, the model would consist of overall building massing and the downstream users are authorized to perform whole building types of analysis (volume, building orientation, cost per square foot, etc.)

LOD 200 - Similar to schematic design or design development, the model would consist of "generalized systems or assemblies with approximate quantities, size, shape, location and orientation."  Authorized uses would include "analysis of selected systems by application of generalized performance criteria."

 LOD 300 - Model elements are suitable for the generation of traditional construction documents and shop drawings.  As such, analysis and simulation is authorized for detailed elements and systems. Image courtesy of Mortenson Construction

LOD 400 - This level of development is considered to be suitable for fabrication and assembly.  The MEA for this LOD is most likely to be the trade contractor or fabricator as it is usually outside the scope of the architect's or engineer's services or would constitute severe risk exposure if such parties are not adequately insured

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LOD 500 - The final level of development represents the project as it has been constructed - the as-built conditions.  The model is suitable for maintenance and operations of the facility.

here's a link to the article:

http://allthingsbim.blogspot.com/2008/12/aia-bim-protocol-e202.html