3D modeling projects, whether Scan-to-BIM, parametric reverse engineering, or facility CAD reconstruction, are scoped from six core inputs. Providing clearer answers to these six questions helps GDS prepare a more accurate proposal. Partial information is also fine; GDS can identify gaps during a scoping call.
How GDS Can Support the Next Step
Most physical-to-digital projects touch more than one discipline. GDS can help define the right capture method, deliverable format, modeling level, and implementation plan through 3D laser scanning, 3D modeling, reverse engineering, and consulting.
Posted service areas: GDS lists coverage across major metro areas including Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, Long Beach, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Las Vegas, Beverly Hills, Irvine, Fort Worth, Riverside, and Shreveport. GDS also lists offices in Torrance, California and Houston, Texas. See the current GDS locations page for posted service areas.
Scope note: Accuracy, tolerances, schedule, pricing, inspection method, reporting, file formats, compliance requirements, and acceptance criteria should be confirmed in the quote, proposal, or statement of work for the individual project. Nothing on this resource page should be read as a universal certification, tolerance commitment, or standard deliverable for every GDS project.
Six Inputs That Drive a Scope-Defined Modeling Proposal
A 3D modeling quote is only useful when the required deliverable is clear. GDS scopes modeling work around source data, Level of Development, discipline boundaries, file format, coordinate requirements, and schedule so the proposal reflects the actual downstream use of the model.
1. Do You Have Existing Scan Data, or Do You Need Scanning Too?
If you already have a registered point cloud, GDS can review whether the data appears suitable for the requested modeling outcome. If no scan data exists, GDS can scope 3D laser scanning and 3D modeling together as a scan-to-model workflow.
2. Required Level of Development
LOD is one of the biggest modeling cost drivers. Instead of over-specifying, describe what the model must support: layout planning, clash detection, owner documentation, fabrication coordination, or facility management.
| LOD | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| LOD 200 | Planning-level massing and approximate system layout |
| LOD 300 | Coordination-level geometry and location for many renovation workflows |
| LOD 350 | Connections, supports, interfaces, and coordination details when specifically required |
| LOD 400 | Fabrication-level modeling only when fabrication intent and required criteria are defined |
3. Systems and Disciplines to Be Modeled
List the systems that must be included, such as structural steel, process piping, mechanical equipment, HVAC, electrical trays, fire protection, or instrumentation. Each discipline should be included because it supports the project objective, not because it exists in the scan.
4. Deliverable Platform and Format
Specify the required platform or exchange format: Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, MicroStation, IFC, STEP, or another required output. GDS can help align the deliverable with your software environment through consulting when the internal standard is unclear.
5. Coordinate System and Units
Confirm whether the model must align to a site datum, shared coordinates, plant grid, or a project origin. Also confirm metric or imperial units.
6. Timeline and Downstream Milestones
Provide the date the model is needed and the decision it supports. Schedule commitments should be confirmed in the proposal after scope, source data, and required deliverables are reviewed.
What Happens After You Submit
- Submission review: GDS reviews the provided files, project objective, LOD requirement, and deliverable needs.
- Scoping call when needed: For multi-discipline or unclear scopes, GDS may schedule a short call to confirm model boundaries, LOD, coordinate requirements, and exclusions.
- Written proposal: Once the required inputs are confirmed, GDS provides a scope-defined proposal with deliverables, assumptions, exclusions, schedule, and pricing.
- Kickoff: After acceptance, GDS confirms the modeling workflow, required file exchange process, and any scanning or source-data requirements.
Liability guardrail: Modeling level, schedule, coordinate alignment, IFC export requirements, and acceptance criteria should be defined in the proposal or statement of work. A resource article should not be treated as a universal commitment for every project.
Optional, Helpful But Not Required
- Existing facility drawings, P&IDs, or general arrangement drawings of the area to be modeled
- Equipment datasheets and OEM cut sheets (reduces custom BIM family creation time)
- Existing Revit central file or project template (if model must integrate with an existing project)
- Clash detection coordination meeting schedule
- Previous scan data in .e57 or .rcp format (if GDS is modeling from client-provided data)
Quick Facts
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FAQ
Can GDS model from my existing point cloud data?
Yes. GDS can review existing point cloud data for coverage, density, registration quality, and suitability for the requested modeling level before confirming scope. The final modeling approach depends on the condition and completeness of the source data.
What if I don't know which LOD I need?
Describe the downstream use case and GDS can help identify an appropriate LOD for the proposal. LOD should be confirmed in the project scope, because over-specifying model detail can add cost without improving the final decision.
Can GDS deliver a model in IFC format for open BIM coordination?
Yes, when scoped. GDS can export IFC models for open BIM coordination from supported authoring platforms. The target schema, property requirements, and acceptance criteria should be confirmed before production.
Need a Scope-Defined 3D Modeling Proposal?
Send the source data you have, the model purpose, required file format, and milestone dates. GDS will review the information and confirm the proposal scope, assumptions, and deliverables before work begins.