This document discusses different levels of Building Information Modelling (BIM) maturity from Level 0 to Level 3. Level 0 involves using only 2D CAD with no collaboration. Level 1 uses 3D CAD but still maintains separate models and files. Level 2 requires collaboration and sharing information through a common file format. Level 3 aims for a single, shared project model accessible by all stakeholders.

2. In the construction industry, Building Information
Modelling (BIM) is about developing and operating
buildings using digital data that all relevant stakeholders
have access to.
Rather than describing the technology used, or just the 3D
model that accounts for the ‘M’ of the acronym, BIM refers
to the process of all parties involved in the construction and
lifecycle management of built assets working collaboratively
and sharing pertinent information.
This information is shared through a mutually accessible
online space known as a common data environment
(CDE). The data collected is referred to as an ‘information
model’.Information models can be used at all stages of a
building’s life; from inception right through to operation
and even refurbishment and renewal.
BIM operates at different levels. Each level
describes a different set of criteria which,
when met, demonstrate a particular level
of ‘BIM maturity’. These levels begin with
0 and go up to 4D and beyond. They are
used to gauge how effectively information
is being shared and managed throughout
the supply chain.
What isn’t always immediately clear is
what each level involves and it can be
confusing to identify at which level your
working and how you can develop your
BIM maturity. Here is a brief guide to the
first three levels and an explanation of
what criteria are involved at each stage.

3. If you’re working at Level 0, you will not be operating collaboratively at
all. If you’re using 2D CAD and working with drawings and/or digital
prints then you’re at level 0.
These days, most of the industry are working above this level, although
there is still some unease among those who are yet to fully understand
the benefits of moving up the BIM ladder.
Level 0 BIM

4. If you use 3D CAD for concept work but 2D for drafting production
information and other documentation then it’s likely you’re working
at Level 1. At this level, CAD standards are managed to BS 1192:2007
and electronic sharing of data is carried out from a common data
environment (CDE) usually managed by the contractor.
A great many businesses are working at this level where there typically
isn’t any collaboration and each stakeholder publishes and maintains
its own data.
Level 1 BIM

5. Level 2 BIM
Level 2 sees the emergence of working collaboratively. Since April 2016, it’s
also been a mandatory requirement on all publically tendered projects in the
UK. At level 2, everyone uses 3D CAD models but, typically, not the same,
single, shared model. However, the way stakeholders exchange information is
key to level 2. Information about the design of a built-asset is shared through a
common file format.
When businesses combine this with their own data of their own they can carry
out checks that save time and money of manpower and reworking. Because of
the way data is shared, CAD software must be capable of exporting to a common
file format, such as IFC (Industry Foundation Class) or COBie (Construction
Operations Building Information Exchange).

6. The UK Government is committed to Level 3 being prerequisite for all
projects in the future. Many people regard it as a BIM panacea. Instead
of each party working on their own 3D model, Level 3 sees everyone
using a single, shared project model.
The model sits in a ‘central’ place and can be accessed and modified
by everyone. This is what is referred to as Open BIM. This means that
another layer of protection is added against clashes, adding value to the
project at every stage.
Level 3 BIM