In the dynamic field of IT service management, the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) has been a cornerstone for establishing industry standards and best practices. ITIL v2, introduced in 2001, set the stage for a process-based approach to IT service delivery and support. However, the landscape of ITIL underwent a significant transformation with the release of ITIL v3 on May 30, 2007. This new version brought forth a service lifecycle framework, additional processes and functions, and a credit-based qualification system. Despite the advancements, ITIL v2 materials and certifications remain accessible and recognized within the industry. This article delves into the distinctions between ITIL v2 and v3, offering insights into which version aligns best with your professional needs and how to transition or update your qualifications in the ever-evolving IT service management sector.
The ITIL framework is a collection of best practice guidelines authored by seasoned IT service managers, incorporating insights from a diverse range of industry professionals. Let's explore the core components of both ITIL v2 and v3.
ITIL v2 comprised eight core titles, with 'Service Support' and 'Service Delivery' being the primary guides for IT service management. These two books were integral to the ITIL v2 Practitioner and Service Manager qualifications. The other six titles included:
In contrast, ITIL v3 introduced a service lifecycle concept to enhance the design logic of IT service management. The five core ITIL v3 volumes are:
This restructuring aimed to provide more precise guidance and address gaps in the previous version. ITIL v3 expanded the framework with 12 new processes and 3 new functions.
ITIL v3 emphasized a business-driven strategy, aligning IT service management with real-world business objectives. This approach mirrors other methodologies like PRINCE2 and MSP, focusing on eliminating outdated processes and practices.
The coexistence of ITIL v2 and v3 has led to uncertainty regarding which version to pursue. As there is no set date for retiring the v2 examination system, many continue to follow the v2 qualification pathway. Individuals seeking ITIL qualifications typically fall into one of four categories:
For those with ITIL v2 qualifications, the decision to upgrade to v3 can be influenced by the desire to stay current with the latest IT service management practices. ITIL offers 'Bridging' courses to facilitate this transition, enabling v2 Foundation certified individuals to pursue v3 Intermediate qualifications and v2 Practitioners to become v3 Experts.
According to the ITIL Successful Candidates Register, there are already more than three times as many ITIL v3 qualified individuals compared to those with ITIL v2 certification. This trend reflects the growing preference for the updated framework's focus on real-world business strategy and structured learning.
ITIL continues to evolve, integrating the strengths of v2 to develop a comprehensive, contemporary guide to service management practice. While ITIL v2 remains a viable theoretical resource, the enhancements in ITIL v3 suggest that new students would benefit from starting with the updated version.
In conclusion, ITIL v3's lifecycle approach and alignment with business strategies make it a more relevant choice for today's IT service management professionals. However, the continued recognition of ITIL v2 certifications ensures that those credentials remain valuable in the industry. As ITIL continues to evolve, professionals must consider their current qualifications and future career goals when deciding between v2 and v3.
All Change: Getting into Project Management
Nobody stays in one career all their life nowadays. Some go from teaching into law. Nurses enter the police force. Actors become politicians. Project Management offers the greatest opportunity for a career change. Demanding and rewarding in equal measure, it draws on transferable skills rather than industry specialisation.
Will PRINCE2 Help Me Get a Job?
Project Management as a specialised skill-set and career path is becoming increasingly prominent. Ever more new graduates are considering trainee project management roles, for the clear career progression that they offer, the satisfaction of practical application of learned skills to specific projects, and the opportunity for a varied and rewarding career across a wide variety of organisations.
Dealing with Project Failure
It is a fact of life that not every project succeeds. Sometimes the market changes and the product is no longer viable. Sometimes the budget or time constraints are untenable. Sometimes it is simply a case that somebody has made a mistake.
