Understanding the BIM Levels

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is not just a modeling technology, it is above all a collaborative methodology. It aims to create and share a single database for a project, from design through to operations. The objective is to reduce errors, improve coordination and optimize construction costs and schedules.

To measure BIM adoption and maturity, several levels are distinguished: 0, 1, 2 and 3. These levels reflect the ability of stakeholders to collaborate around digital models and to structure information in a reliable way. Whereas levels 0 and 1 correspond to the early stages, it is primarily levels 2 and 3 that mark a true revolution in professional practice.

In this guide, we will analyze each level in detail and then explain why the move from BIM level 2 to BIM level 3 is decisive. Finally, we will see how Kroqi, a sovereign French platform, helps teams progress step by step through this transition.

The different BIM levels: from 0 to 3

Level 0: 2D exchanges with no real collaboration

Level 0 corresponds to a traditional organization where documents are produced and exchanged as 2D drawings.

The dominant formats are DWG or PDF.
Exchanges often take place by email or via physical media.
Stakeholders each work in isolation, without a collaborative environment.

Concrete example: an architect provides a 2D drawing to a structural engineering office. If the engineer makes a change, the architect must manually integrate the change into their file. This multiplies the risks of errors and version drift.

Level 1: 3D appears and partial information management

With level 1, 3D comes into play, in particular to represent volumes and improve visualization. Some documents start to be structured (quantities, schedules), but each stakeholder keeps their own files.

Example: an architect designs the building in 3D with CAD/DAO software, while the structural engineer uses another tool for their calculations. The files are not interoperable and must be translated manually, which limits collaboration.

Level 2: interoperability, federated models and advanced collaboration

Level 2 is the level of structured collaboration. Each discipline produces its own digital model, but these can be federated in an overall model.

Exchanges rely on open formats such as IFC or BCF.
A common data environment (CDE) centralizes files, ensuring access to the right version at the right time.
Detecting conflicts between models reduces errors and avoids cost overruns during construction.

Example: during a school renovation project, MEP engineers integrate their networks into an IFC model. Federated with the structural model, the software highlights an interference between a beam and a technical duct. The correction is made upstream, avoiding costly rework on site.

Level 3: single collaborative model and real-time data management

Level 3 represents the culmination of the BIM approach.

All stakeholders work on a single shared model, updated in real time.
The data is integrated into a centralized database, accessible to each stakeholder according to their rights.
Coordination becomes immediate: a modification made by a structural engineer is instantly reflected in the model viewed by the architect or the cost consultant.

Example: in a hospital project, a level 3 BIM model allows the project owner to track in real time the evolution of drawings, the updated costs and the impacts on the schedule. This approach makes decision-making easier and improves transparency between all parties.

BIM Level	Main characteristics	Formats used	Collaboration	Limits
Level 0	2D drawings, isolated document exchanges	DWG, PDF	Almost nonexistent	Scattered data, high probability of errors
Level 1	Introduction of 3D, partial data structuring	DWG, proprietary formats	Limited collaboration, non-interoperable exchanges	Restricted coordination, fragmented files
Level 2	Federated discipline models, interoperability via open formats, use of a CDE	IFC, BCF	Advanced collaboration between stakeholders	Coordination depends on the quality of exchanges and standards
Level 3	Single collaborative model, centralized real-time data, shared access	IFC, openBIM-compatible formats	Complete, simultaneous collaboration	Organizational complexity, strong requirements for governance and data security

Why the move from level 2 to level 3 is strategic

Improving coordination and reducing errors

Level 2 already enables effective coordination, but it relies on federating distinct models. Level 3, with its single model, further eliminates duplicates and inconsistencies. Each stakeholder accesses reliable, up-to-date information, which reduces the risks of defects and disputes.

Optimizing costs and schedules

Early detection of errors and real-time data updates make it possible to better control costs. Delays are limited because the impacts of a decision can be simulated and corrected immediately. This responsiveness translates into increased productivity and better profitability.

Meeting market requirements

Many public tenders already require BIM level 2. Level 3, still rarely generalized, will become a standard in the medium term. The stakeholders who adopt this approach today take a lead and value their expertise with clients.

Supporting the digital transformation of the sector

The move from level 2 to level 3 is not only technical: it involves reorganization. Processes must be designed to encourage transparency and continuous collaborative work. This change opens the way to innovative uses, such as digital twins, which extend the value of the model beyond construction, into the operations and maintenance of structures.

The benefits of Kroqi for working on every BIM level

An environment adapted to each level

From level 0, Kroqi offers centralization of documents that avoids scattering. From level 2 onwards, it becomes a true CDE to host and manage federated models. This continuity allows teams to progress without changing tools.

Data security and governance

Kroqi guarantees sovereign, secure hosting in France. Administrators define access rights, and every action is logged. This governance brings essential trust, in particular for public or sensitive projects.

Collaboration and interoperability

Compatible with the IFC and BCF formats, Kroqi makes it easier to exchange models between business applications. The built-in comment, annotation and notification features improve communication and effectively replace scattered email exchanges.

A lever to evolve toward level 3

By centralizing data and enabling real-time tracking, Kroqi naturally prepares teams for BIM level 3. It becomes a transition tool for organizations that wish to take a step up without technological disruption.

Accessibility and broad adoption

Entirely free, Kroqi is accessible to small structures as well as to large players. This democratizes BIM by allowing everyone to commit to a progressive, controlled approach.

Succeeding in the digital transition of construction

The BIM levels reflect the digital maturity of a project, from the simple exchange of 2D drawings (level 0) to the single collaborative model (level 3). The move from level 2 to level 3 is a decisive step to reduce errors, optimize costs and respond to new market expectations.

By offering a collaborative, secure and sovereign environment, Kroqi supports this progression and helps teams gain efficiency. Free and simple, it is a reference solution for any organization, from small agencies to large projects.

With Kroqi, AEC stakeholders have a reliable tool to structure their BIM approach, progress from one level to the next and calmly prepare for the future of digital construction.