DIN EN 17412-1: "2021-0606 - Building information modelling - Information need depth - Part 1: Concepts and principles" replaces the term Level of Detail (LOD) with Level of Information Need (LoIN). ISO 19650 also adopts this concept of BIM planning. In both standards, information management is holistic, taking into account the entire life cycle of the building.
The use of the Level of Detail (LOD) in BIM planning has proven to be outdated because its definition is complicated and the model contents have to be redefined for each project. In addition, the concrete application reference is often missing and the level of detail is not consistently implemented or not considered over longer periods of time. The LOD describes the geometry of a component as well as additional alphanumeric information , which can vary depending on the level of detail.
For the LoIN concept, which includes documentation and a clear assignment of the delivery item, its information depth and those involved, the application goal is always decisive for the information requirement depth. This means that the project determines which information about a specific component is really necessary for planning. Unnecessary details that are irrelevant to the planning process are omitted in order to avoid an excess of information.
For example, when using a fire door, it is crucial that the opening dimensions are correct and that the materials used meet the required fire resistance class. Geometric information and appropriate classifications and evidence are therefore required. Details such as the type of handle set, locking systems, locking cylinder types, procurement costs or maintenance intervals are unimportant.