ITIL vs ITIL 4

ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) and ITIL 4 are different versions of the ITIL framework used for managing IT service management (ITSM) processes.

Let's compare ITIL and ITIL 4:

• ITIL: ITIL, also known as ITIL v3, is the previous version of the ITIL framework. It has been widely used and established as a global standard for IT service management. ITIL v3 is based on a five-stage lifecycle approach, which includes Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, and Continual Service Improvement.

• ITIL 4: ITIL 4 is the latest version of the ITIL framework, introduced to keep up with the changing business environment and technology landscape. ITIL 4 builds upon the core principles of ITIL v3 and expands its focus on integrating ITIL with other popular frameworks and methodologies such as Agile, DevOps, and Lean. ITIL 4 introduces the Service Value System (SVS), which provides a more holistic approach to IT service management. The SVS encompasses various components, including the Service Value Chain, Guiding Principles, Governance, and Practices.

Major Differences:

• Service Value System (SVS): ITIL 4 introduces the SVS, which is a more comprehensive and integrated approach to managing IT services. It consists of the Service Value Chain, which is made up of connected actions that help create value for customers.

• Guiding Principles: ITIL 4 introduces seven guiding principles, which act as guiding values for organizations to adopt while implementing ITIL practices. Focusing on value, beginning where you are, cooperating, and encouraging visibility are a few of these ideas.

• Service Value Chain: ITIL 4 incorporates the Service Value Chain, which consists of six interconnected activities (Plan, Improve, Engage, Design & Transition, Obtain/Build, and Deliver & Support) that organizations can perform to create value for their customers.

• Processes vs. Practices: ITIL v3 focuses heavily on processes, while ITIL 4 shifts the emphasis towards practices. Practices are a set of organizational resources designed for performing work or achieving an objective, and they can include processes, methods, and more.

• Integration with Modern Practices: ITIL 4 acknowledges the importance of integrating with other modern practices, such as Agile, DevOps, and Lean, to enhance IT service delivery and value creation.

• Certification Scheme: ITIL 4 introduces a streamlined certification scheme, making it easier for professionals to progress through the levels of certification.

Ultimately, ITIL 4 represents a more up-to-date and holistic approach to IT service management, addressing the needs of modern organizations and the evolving technology landscape. Organizations can choose to adopt ITIL 4 or stick with ITIL v3, depending on their specific requirements and preferences. However, as ITIL 4 encompasses the best practices of ITIL v3 and extends beyond, it is generally recommended to adopt the latest version for new implementations and improvements.