IT Technology Infrastructure Library
What is ITIL? | A Guide to the IT Infrastructure Library
The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) is the most widely accepted framework for IT service management (ITSM) across the globe. ITIL provides a set of best practices aimed at aligning IT services with the needs of the business, ensuring efficient service delivery and adding value to customers. This comprehensive framework is used by both public and private sectors to manage IT services effectively.
The History of ITIL
Originally developed in the 1980s by the UK government’s Central Computer & Telecommunications Agency (CCTA), ITIL was designed to help organisations adopt best practices for managing IT services. As IT became an increasingly vital part of business operations, ITIL evolved into the go-to framework for IT service management.
In 2013, Axelos, a joint venture between the UK Cabinet Office and Capita, took ownership of ITIL. The most recent version, ITIL 4, was released in 2019, providing updated guidelines to address modern challenges in IT, such as digital transformation and high-velocity IT.
What is ITIL 4?
ITIL 4 builds on the strengths of previous versions, like ITIL v3, by continuing to focus on automation, improving service management, and integrating IT with business strategy. ITIL 4 reflects modern practices by incorporating principles from DevOps, Agile, Lean IT, and Organisational Change Management (OCM). This version supports organisations in adapting to new technologies and tools, emphasising digital transformation.
ITIL 4 introduces a Service Value System (SVS) and nine guiding principles to enhance IT service management:
- Focus on value
- Design for experience
- Start where you are
- Work holistically
- Progress iteratively
- Observe directly
- Be transparent
- Collaborate
- Keep it simple
These principles aim to ensure IT services align with business goals and continuously deliver value to both the organisation and its customers.
Why Choose ITIL for IT Service Management?
IT service management (ITSM) benefits enormously from a best practice approach like ITIL. The framework is constantly evolving to incorporate the latest industry insights and user feedback, ensuring it remains practical and relevant. By adopting ITIL, organisations can optimise their IT services, reduce costs, and improve service delivery—all while enhancing customer satisfaction.
ITIL Training Options
At Pink Elephant, we offer a variety of ITIL training courses to help professionals and organisations gain the skills they need to implement ITIL successfully:
- ITIL Classroom – Traditional classroom courses at a specified location and date.
- ITIL E-Learning – Self-paced online courses with no fixed schedule.
- ITIL Virtual – Instructor-led virtual courses held online, following a live schedule.
- On-site ITIL Courses – Tailored on-site training at your chosen location and date.
Whether you prefer in-person, online, or bespoke training, our ITIL courses provide the flexibility to meet your learning needs.
Conclusion
Adopting the ITIL framework can help your organisation streamline IT service management, boost operational efficiency, and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world. With comprehensive best practices and training options available, ITIL is your key to successful ITSM.