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ITIL Certification: Complete Guide (Benefits, Job Opportunities, Salary Insights, Learning Path, Registration Process)

Vikas Sharma
Vikas Sharma

Last updated 25/09/2024


ITIL Certification: Complete Guide (Benefits, Job Opportunities, Salary Insights, Learning Path, Registration Process)

Ever wonder how top companies manage their IT services so smoothly in 2024? The answer is ITIL – a powerful framework that helps organizations deliver high-quality IT services. It's not just a tool; it's the backbone of modern IT service management. But here’s the major question, is ITIL really necessary? And if it is needed, who should opt for it?

ITIL certification is a globally recognized credential that validates the individual's knowledge and competence in IT service management practices. ITIL provides the framework of best practices that are designed to align IT services with the requirements of the business, enhancing service quality and improving consumer satisfaction.

In this guide, you’ll get to know about ITIL certification, learning path, benefits, job opportunities, salary, etc. So, let’s jump straight into it!

ITIL or Information Technology Infrastructure Library Explained

ITIL is like a playbook for IT professionals, guiding them to deliver the best IT services. Developed over years of observing and collecting the best practices, it offers a trusted framework that ensures quality and consistency. ITIL certification full form is Information Technology Infrastructure Library.

From cloud services and network security to data storage and processing, ITIL covers many essential IT services. It also includes managed print services, IT consulting, help desk support, and IoT.

According to various surveys, a significant percentage of companies—around 50% to 60%—consider ITIL certification a valuable asset when hiring IT professionals.

What makes ITIL stand out? The answer is its clear and structured approach. It assists businesses in managing risks, cutting costs, and improving customer relationships. In short, ITIL creates a stable and reliable IT environment, which is important for any organization’s success.

What is ITIL Certification?

What is ITIL certification? ITIL certification is an internationally recognized credential that is issued to professionals in information technology. If you are ITIL certified, you will be able to improve efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and reduce costs by understanding and then applying ITIL principles.

There are different levels in ITIL certification, starting with the ITIL Foundation, which describes the main concepts, terminology, and basic practices of ITSM. Progressively, more advanced levels are available, i.e. ITIL Practitioner, ITIL Intermediate, and ITIL Expert-level certifications that cover more in-depth knowledge concerning specialized areas of IT service management.

Getting ITIL certification is worth the step in your career if you are engaged in information technology or managing IT services. Increasing knowledge and skills will help you in increasing career prospects. 

This is because organizations more often look for ITIL-certified professionals to lead their initiatives in ITSM (IT Service Management). After all, this credential shows that a person has substantial knowledge of how quality IT services should be provided in a structured and efficient manner.

Who Provides ITIL Certification?

Axelos is the organization behind the ITIL certification, recognized globally for its commitment to setting the standard for best practices in IT service management. As a leading provider of global frameworks, Axelos ITIL certification draws inspiration from businesses that adopt these best practices to enhance profitability, expand market presence, and effectively navigate evolving business challenges.

In collaboration with Peoplecert and Axelos, NovelVista offers ITIL certification, empowering professionals to enhance their skills and contribute to organizational success.

Benefits of ITIL Certification

Getting ITIL certified improves your professional reputation. It shows employers that you have a solid grasp of the best practices for managing IT services, making you stand out as a knowledgeable and reliable candidate.

Benefits of ITIL Certification | NovelVista Learning Solutions
  • Career Growth: With ITIL, you can aim for higher-level jobs like IT service manager, project manager, or CIO. This sets you apart in the job market and opens up new chances.
  • Efficiency Improvements: ITIL offers a framework that helps IT services match up with business needs. This makes operations run smoother and improves service delivery.
  • Improved Risk Management: It focuses on minimizing risk by providing structured processes and best practices. It helps to identify, assess, and manage risks effectively, which reduces the likelihood of issues and their impact on business operations.
  • Better Collaboration Among IT Teams: ITIL introduces a common language across the IT teams, making easy and effective collaboration among members.
  • People/Process Oriented: ITIL is not just about the process; it improves how people work together and enhances team dynamics and productivity.
  • Improved Earning Potential: Getting an ITIL certification opens the doorways for more job opportunities and salary increments, which we will discuss more in the sections below.

What are ITIL 3 and ITIL 4?

Wondering about advancements in ITIL 4 over ITIL V3? Think of ITIL 4 as the next-gen upgrade to ITIL 3. While ITIL 3 focuses on structured processes and roles, ITIL 4 introduces a more flexible and holistic approach:

ITIL 3: An Overview

ITIL 3 is the third version of the framework that explains the wide delivery of IT service management. This version focuses on aligning IT services to business service needs. 

Therefore, it consists of 5 core stages - Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, and Continuous Service Improvement. Each stage provides detailed processes and function guidance that will enable organizations to deliver high-quality IT services. 

ITIL 3 has been a key guide for building stable and efficient IT systems that meet customer needs. It’s very detailed and process-focused. But in today’s scenario, ITIL 3 can seem a bit too rigid and not as flexible as we need.

ITIL 4: An Overview

The newest adaptation of the ITIL framework is ITIL 4, which is considered to be more suitable for today's IT environments. It builds upon ITIL 3 and shifts the perspective toward a more broad view of IT service management. ITIL 4 introduces the Service Value System, combining elements such as governance, practices, and continual improvement with more flexibility and responsibility.

It has been designed to perform better with Agile, DevOps, and other modern approaches; it thus helps in addressing most of the challenges of digital transformation that are faced today by organizations. ITIL 4 is focused on collaboration, automation, and a customer-centric approach, therefore, becoming more relevant in today's complex IT environment.

How is ITIL 4 Different from ITIL V3?

ITIL 4 has given the ITIL framework a major makeover, focusing more on value, cost, and risk. While it builds on ideas from ITIL V3, it also brings in fresh concepts for a more value-driven approach to IT services.

Difference Between ITIL V3 and ITIL 4 | NovelVista Learning Solutions

ITIL 4 has made some big changes from ITIL V3. It no longer uses the old terms and images for things like service strategy and service operation. The main update is how it organizes everything into two main parts - the ITIL Service Value System (SVS) and the Four Dimensions Model.

Business opportunities and demands for services are transformed into business value by the new ITIL Service Value System. The new refined IT service lifecycle is denoted by the ITIL Service Value Chain, and it is the central component of the SVS. ITIL 4 focuses on creating value together.

Certification Path: Beginners to Advanced

Like other certifications, ITIL certification also has different levels and learning paths. Let’s take a look at separate levels and what you can expect at each stage:

 ITIL Certification Stages | NovelVista Learning Solutions

ITIL Foundation Certification

This is the first certification in the series that gives an applicant a basic understanding of the ITIL framework. It covers the key concepts and ideas of ITIL, along with the process for IT Service Management that supports the ITIL Service Lifecycle.

It sets the focus on how IT services are aligned with the needs of business. This certification is great for beginners and gives candidates the knowledge to improve how services are managed in an organization.

Benefits of ITIL Foundation Certification

  • Provides you with a solid grounding in ITIL and enables you to bring a uniform approach to the ITSM lifecycle.
  • Improves job prospects by demonstrating the ability to understand and apply ITIL best practices.
  • Works as Pre-qualification for ITIL certification at a higher level 2 - ITIL Practitioner Certification.

ITIL Practitioner Certification

The Practitioner, on the other hand, has an extension to the Foundation. It focuses on how to adopt and adapt ITIL to real-world scenarios. It focuses more on Continuous Service Improvement, which helps professionals understand how to best apply ITIL principles in their organization.

This will cover useful techniques like measuring performance, effective communication, and managing changes within the organization to help professionals improve IT service management.

Advantages of ITIL Practitioner Certification

  • Enhances your ITIL implementation experience.
  • Provides you with practical resources and techniques for IT service management.
  • Improves the ability to solve problems and make decisions in IT service delivery.

ITIL Intermediate Certification

The ITIL Intermediate is a modular certification; therefore, each module in it has a different view of ITSM. It is divided into two separate streams - the service lifecycle and service capability. 

The strategic view comes with the lifecycle modules, while the capability modules are oriented on the process. This certification is perfect for professionals who want to focus on specific areas of ITIL.

ITIL Intermediate Certification Benefits

  • Allows you to create a customized learning path based on your career goals.
  • Deepens your knowledge of specific ITSM processes and roles.
  • Prepares you well for leadership positions in IT Service Management.

ITIL Expert Certification

This ITIL Expert certification is intended for those seeking to demonstrate a superior level of understanding of the ITIL framework and the connections between the components.

The certification in this field involves covering certain modules at the Intermediate level, as well as one in MALC (Managing Across the Lifecycle). This certification is for professionals who want to prove their advanced knowledge and skills in IT Service Management.

ITIL Expert Certification Advantages

  • Positions you as an ITSM expert to your organization and enhances your career prospects.
  • Gives an integral view of ITIL and its application.
  • Helps you to stay ahead and handle fierce IT service management projects effectively.

ITIL Master Certification

ITIL Master is the highest level in the ITIL qualification scheme and is targeted at people who have achieved a high level of understanding of the ITIL scheme in its entirety. The candidate must be able to describe, apply, justify, and take the lead in ITIL-supported service management principles at an advanced level.

This normally requires the completion of a work-based project to show expertise. Target Audience - Advanced ITSM Professionals seeking proof of their expertise in ITIL.

ITIL Master Certification Benefits

  • Positions you as an elite expert in ITIL and ITSM.
  • Develop credibility and level of authority in IT service management.
  • Open opportunities for top management and consultancy career positions.

The ITIL certification levels are designed to guide professionals through various ITIL certification stages, helping them develop expertise in IT service management from foundational knowledge to advanced strategic skills.

This career path is like a carefully crafted roadmap for IT professionals. It guides you to learn more about IT service management and helps you advance your career step by step.

Salary After Completing the ITIL Certification

Ever wondered what an ITIL certification could do for your paycheck? In India, ITIL-certified pros earn around INR 9,60,000 annually. For those with an ITIL Foundation certificate, the average salary jumps to about $98,000 a year—11% higher than their non-certified professionals. 

Also, professionals earn an average of $94,482 annually and if you're at the top of your game, you could even make up to $162,000 a year. It’s a fantastic way to boost your career and your salary. Here’s a curated list of the most frequently asked ITIL interview questions to help candidates confidently tackle their interviews.

Who Should Opt for ITIL Certification?

Thinking about ITIL certification but unsure if it's right for you? Explore who can gain the most from ITIL certification and why it can be the perfect fit for your professional growth.

ITIL Certification Job Opportunities | NovelVista Learning Solutions

Organizations

Training in ITIL is meant to assist organizations in getting streamlined IT services and hence improving efficiency and reducing costs. ITIL best practices assist the organization in improving service delivery, reducing downtime, and aligning IT with the business goals for increasing customer satisfaction and competitiveness of the business enterprise.

IT Service Managers and IT Managers

ITIL training offers IT service managers and IT managers a cohesive framework to ensure standards for efficiency while running IT services. They are better placed to manage resources, control risks, and enforce continuous improvement in this framework of IT services meant to respond to business needs.

IT Consultants and Analysts

Getting ITIL training enables the IT consultant or analyst to provide strategic advice based on proven best practices. It enhances their capability to assess a given organization's IT perspective, find inefficiencies, and recommend changes in alignment with business intent, thus making them more valuable to their clients.

Product Owners and Project Managers

ITIL training provides process owners and project managers with the toolset required for the design, restructure, implementation, and management of IT processes. It gives a systematic approach to project management applied in IT to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget, with the right outcomes.

Network/System Administrators and Engineers

Training in ITIL offers insight into how the technical work of network and system administrators fits into the bigger context of service management and how it can be applied to continuously improve services.

IT Support and Help Desk Staff

Training helps the IT support and help desk staff with best practices regarding incidences, problems, and requests within their discretion. ITIL training enables them to record, alert, and control the time spent in solving issues to help in quick resolution times, boost customer satisfaction, and provide a structured approach towards day-to-day activity support.

Business and Operation Managers

Axelos ITIL certification is important to business and operation managers because it makes them understand more about the impact IT services have on the business. It allows them to work in unity with IT teams, thus creating complementary IT strategies that drive business success.

To Be IT Professionals

An ITIL training course is an investment through the conduit of one's future, a future aspiring to be an IT professional. It equips new IT professionals with basic knowledge of how IT service management is run, hence making them ready for their career paths in the competitive scenario of the IT field.

How to Sign Up for ITIL Certification?

Follow these easy steps to register for the ITIL 4 Foundation exam:

  1. Go to the NovelVista’s registration page.
  2. Enter your details like name, email, and contact number.
  3. Use a Visa or MasterCard Credit/Debit card.
  4. Complete the payment process.
  5. Once the payment is successful, you're all set – your course registration is done!

How to Register for the ITIL 4 Exam?

Follow these easy steps to register for the ITIL 4 Exam:

  1. Create an account on Peoplecert and fill in your details.
  2. Use your exam voucher to redeem it.
  3. A pop-up will show the available exam slots.
  4. Choose the time that works best for you and book it!

Expiration and Maintenance of Certification

To maintain your certification, you must need to renew it every 3 years. It can be done by retaking the exam, taking the high-level certification, or continuing professional development points via the MyAxelos portal. 

Final Thoughts: ITIL Certification

Looking to improve your IT service management skills? ITIL certification provides a clear, structured path to mastering industry-leading best practices. By getting into ITIL's core principles—from the basics to advanced levels—you'll significantly boost your ability to manage and enhance IT services. 

With the shift from ITIL V3 to ITIL 4, the framework now tackles contemporary challenges and aligns IT services with strategic business objectives. The ITIL certification levels guide professionals through the different ITIL certification stages, helping them build expertise in IT service management step by step. 

Whether you’re starting with ITIL Foundation or aiming for an ITIL Master, this certification journey not only opens doors for your career but also brings exceptional value and efficiency to your organization’s IT service management.

Confused about where to start your career in the IT field? Don’t worry, we got your back. Opt for our NovelVista’s ITIL certification course and give your career a kick start by getting Axelos accredited certification!

Topic Related Post
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ITIL Certification: Complete Guide (Benefits, Job Opportunities, Salary Insights, Learning Path, Registration Process)

About Author

Vikas is an Accredited SIAM, ITIL 4 Master, PRINCE2 Agile, DevOps, and ITAM Trainer with more than 20 years of industry experience currently working with NovelVista as Principal Consultant.

 
 
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