ITIL® V3 is a set of best practices for IT managers and professionals to manage workflow, increase service levels, save money and time. It introduced a new four-level certification system and a plan for the smooth transition from V2 to V3. Developers can apply for software certification.
Information Technology Information Library (ITIL®) Version 3 is a set of best practices for Information Technology (IT) managers and professionals. The goals of using ITIL® Version 3 are to better manage workflow, increase service levels, save money and time. ITIL® Version 3, also known as ITIL® V3, was introduced in May 2007.
As technology and business needs change over time, ITIL® courses and training materials are also updated. The result is different versions of ITIL® best practices. ITIL® Version 3 focuses on a lifecycle approach to service management and the importance of integrating IT with all other areas of a business.
ITIL® V3 introduced a new four-level certification system for ITIL® professionals. Students earn credits upon passing exams for the different modules in these levels. Levels include Foundation Level, Intermediate Level, ITIL® Expert and ITIL® Master.
Beginner and intermediate level bridge courses are available for IT professionals who started the certification process with the previous version, ITIL® Version 2. These courses allow candidates to continue the certification process without starting over from the beginning of the version 3 curriculum. In addition, some version 2 credits can be used towards the new ITIL® Expert level, introduced with V3.
As of August 2009, ITIL® V2 credit holders had the option to continue with V2 courses if they did not wish to progress to V3 courses. ITIL® notes that V2 could be withdrawn at any time. Generally, six months’ notice would be given before discontinuing V2. Even after interruption, V2 credits do not expire immediately. Students can still take the bridge courses to refresh their studies and be able to continue with ITIL® V3 courses.
In addition to the certification, ITIL® has developed a plan for the smooth transition of the workplace from V2 to V3. Because IT staff and managers are trained and certified, V3 can be implemented in different phases in each company. To further help companies implement Version 3, a new ITIL® software certification has also been introduced.
Developers who create ITIL® Version 3 compliant software can apply for a software evaluation. If approved, the software vendor can receive one of three levels of certification. These levels are bronze, silver and gold. The level of certification that is awarded depends on a number of factors including, whether the software has been purchased, whether it is in use, and whether proof of use can be provided. Information on how to apply for software certification is available on the ITIL® official website.
ITIL® Version 3 includes a complete overhaul of service management best practices from Version 2. Organizations will need to make an investment in time and money to complete this transition to V3. ITIL® Version 2 was developed in 2000 and had a shelf life of eight years. Due to technology upgrades during that time, businesses may find that implementing the latest version 3 can save more money and effort in the long run.
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