The internet has transformed the way business is conducted in recent years, overhauling how people communicate both within organisations and across other companies. It's also impacted IT services, changing the once archaic tools into powerful platforms capable of driving innovation and improvement.
Of course, unregulated adoption of new technologies and processes can lead to more trouble than benefit, and it's important that all organisations consider how exactly frameworks can provide assistance.
The ITIL service management framework can ensure that businesses move into the next IT age as effectively as possible.
ITIL for an interconnected environment
Internet usage is growing exponentially, and in Australia alone it's reaching new highs every years. In fact, in the three months to June of this year the population downloaded nearly one exabyte (one million terabytes) of data, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
"Exactly five years ago, for the three months ended June 2009, we were just about to hit 100,000 terabytes of downloads, so today's result makes a tenfold increase in just five years," explained Lesley Martin from the ABS.
Growing internet usage in businesses often means increased uptake of cloud services, online platforms and enhanced customer-facing services such as online stores and systems. While these new platforms are certainly beneficial, there's a real risk of mismanagement if companies don't have a firm hold over their implementation.
This is where the ITIL framework can be useful, by providing a practical approach for identifying, planning and supporting IT services within an organisation, regardless of size.
ITIL is currently used by leading organisations across the globe, and to great effect. In fact, it's been around for more than 20 years, and has been constantly reviewed and improved upon as the technology landscape continues to change.
This essentially means that whenever it's implemented, ITIL is providing the best possible framework for companies.
ITIL advocates that all IT services need to be specifically aligned to the needs of the organisation, and underpin core business processes. For many, this will require a reconsideration of how IT is approached. Following the reevaluation, IT can be used more effectively.
How widespread is ITIL?
Although ITIL offers numerous advantages (including those listed above), many businesses will certainly want assurances that the platform can deliver tangible results.
While ITIL may appear to be something only usable by the largest organisations, this actually isn't true. ITIL can be deployed in small and large companies, as well as government institutions.
It's already in use by some of the most powerful organisations in the world, such as NASA, the UK National Health Service and Disney, as well as being supported by providers. Commonly, these are accredited training providers, examination institutes and tool and software vendors.
"[This] can help organisations to effectively implement ITIL, achieving success by ensuring that employees have the relevant knowledge, skills and techniques," the ITIL website explained.
"Most importantly [it ensures] the entire organisation is using a common language and are fully invested in the process."
The fact that ITIL is used by some of the largest and most renowned companies in the world certainly highlights the validity of the framework.
Seeking a provider
If more information is required about about the ITIL framework and the best way to become certified, it's a good idea to approach an accredited provider. These are organisations that offer an effective way to achieve ITIL certification.
Speak to the experts at ALC Training today, as courses can be delivered wherever they're required, including key cities in the Asia Pacific. If training is needed in other locations across the globe, ALC Training can provide all necessary courses.