The Advantages of ITIL Expert Certification

A survey by ITpreneurs, titled ‘The Benefits of Investing in ITIL Expert Certification’, provides some revealing insights into the value of reaching the ITIL Expert level:

• 79% of ITIL Experts indicated that their training and certification improved their job performance, boosted productivity, and positively impacted their IT organisation’s overall efficiency.
• 80% of ITIL Experts reported that their expertise led to better implementation of IT Service Management processes within their organisations.
• 91% of ITIL Experts view their advanced ITIL certification as a competitive edge, helping them gain confidence and stand out from non-certified peers.
• 83% of respondents noted that management values their expertise more after achieving ITIL Expert status, and 87% stated that their skills are more appreciated by both colleagues and peers.

Many ITIL Experts emphasise the critical role that the training process plays in their certification journey. This training deepens their understanding of ITIL best practices and enhances their ability to lead initiatives that drive organisational improvement.

The Essential Role of ITIL in IT Service Management

IT Service Management (ITSM) is a critical function for all IT organisations. If the IT department’s primary role is to deliver services to the business, ITSM is indispensable. Given its significance, why not ensure ITSM is managed by professionals who are thoroughly qualified through ITIL certifications?

In recent studies, 160 ITIL Experts detailed how their expertise contributes significantly to their organisations’ success. Many of these professionals credit their ITIL training and certification for their achievements, underlining the value of advancing beyond the ITIL Foundation level.

The Path to ITIL Expert: Challenges and Rewards

Before the introduction of ITIL Version 3, the certification path was relatively straightforward: Foundation – Practitioner – Manager. The “Red Badge” Manager’s course was recognised as the level where true competence was gained, with Foundation and Practitioner levels serving as stepping stones. However, ITIL Version 3 introduced a more complex certification structure, presenting two major challenges:

1. Number of Courses: Achieving the 22 points required for ITIL Expert status requires a significant time commitment.
2. Cost: The financial investment needed to reach ITIL Expert level can be substantial.

The Drawbacks of Stopping at ITIL Foundation Level

Holding only an ITIL Foundation certification can be limiting. Individuals may find it difficult to secure advanced roles and may struggle to demonstrate the depth of knowledge needed during interviews. From my experience at Pink Elephant, where I’ve interviewed many potential consultants, it’s clear that those with the “Red Badge” (the old ITIL v2 Manager’s certification) or the newer ITIL Expert certification stand out significantly above the rest. Those with only a Foundation-level certification, despite practical experience, often do not reach the same level.

For organisations, employees with only a Foundation-level qualification may lack the comprehensive understanding needed to fully harness ITIL’s benefits. While the Foundation level offers a basic introduction, advanced certifications like ITIL Expert equip professionals with the in-depth knowledge and skills required to implement ITSM processes effectively and maximise the return on IT investments.

Final Thoughts: Is ITIL Expert Certification Worth Pursuing?

Reaching the ITIL Expert level is undoubtedly a challenging journey, demanding significant time and financial resources. However, the benefits for both individuals and organisations are substantial. ITIL Expert certification not only enhances career prospects but also plays a critical role in improving IT Service Management within organisations, leading to more successful business outcomes. For those committed to advancing in ITSM, pursuing ITIL Expert status is a valuable investment.