Automated model progression scheduling using level of development

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to unravel the mystery of Level of Development (LOD) as frequently referred to in Building Information Modelling (BIM) delivery documents. LOD is a key parameter for describing digital content in a BIM context. It is seen as an important vehicle for specifying information exchange throughout a facility' life cycle. However, hitherto, there has been little research examining how, beyond the theoretical concept, LOD can be applied and smartly utilised in practice. This study seeks to unravel the concept and reveal new insights into its application from a design management perspective. Design/methodology/approach - Following a literature and document review, two small-scale case projects were identified. The first was - to temper the state-of-the-art theory and understand what happens in practice today - discovery led. The second was - to drill down to the core of LOD utilisation to support planned model progression and test a plausible novel methodology to automate associated workflow - theory led. Findings - Results suggest that a lack of consistent understanding and utilisation exists and particular LOD errors are highlighted, but, moreover, LOD can be so much more useful if integrated into a BIM-like workflow. Consequently, a new method of automatically comparing planned model progression with the current state of the model is presented. Practical implications - Advancement of the understanding of the concept and application of LOD and its usefulness has significant implications for designing information management research. Originality/value - Fresh insights into LOD, concept and application are presented. The emerging proposed utilisation framework is novel and targets removal of known labour-intensive activities associated with LOD matrices whilst facilitating rich reuse of efficient model progression knowledge.