ANNOUNCING ITIL® (VERSION 5): EVOLUTION IN ACTION

The ITIL® framework continues to grow and adapt. With the release of ITIL® (Version 5), organizations can access enhanced guidance while building on their existing investments. This is not a reset. It is a thoughtful evolution designed to support the way teams work today and tomorrow.

WHY ITIL® MATTERS FOR EVERY ORGANIZATION

ITIL® provides flexible, adaptable guidance for IT service management. Whether you are a small startup or a global enterprise, ITIL® offers practical best practices that scale with your needs. The framework focuses on delivering value to customers and stakeholders, helping organizations optimize their use of technology while improving efficiency and resilience.

With ITIL®, teams can:

• Deliver reliable, high quality IT services that meet evolving business needs
• Streamline decision making with structured best practices
• Foster collaboration across IT and business teams
• Improve risk management and regulatory compliance
• Align IT services with broader business strategies
• Optimize costs while maintaining service quality

WHAT ITIL® (VERSION 5) BRINGS TO THE TABLE

ITIL® Version 5 builds on the foundation of ITIL® 4 with meaningful enhancements that address current business challenges. The update introduces practical, experience driven guidance while maintaining the core principles that have made ITIL® a trusted framework worldwide.

Key enhancements in ITIL® (Version 5):

• A unified Digital Product and Service Lifecycle that simplifies how teams manage technology solutions
• Practical application guidance focused on customer and employee experience
• AI native guidance integrated throughout the framework
• Clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and outcomes for better implementation
• A simplified qualification scheme aligned with real world job roles

CONTINUITY YOU CAN COUNT ON

One of the most important aspects of Version 5 is what stays the same. The ITIL® Guiding Principles, Four Dimensions of Service Management, Service Value System, and the 34 ITIL® Practices remain intact with only minor terminology updates. Your existing ITIL® 4 Foundation certification remains valid and can serve as a prerequisite for Version 5 advanced modules.

This continuity means your team can transition smoothly without losing the value of previous training investments. Organizations can evolve at their own pace with clear guidance every step of the way.

YOUR PATH FORWARD

Whether you are new to ITIL® or building on existing certifications, there is a clear path forward.

Starting Fresh: Begin with ITIL® (Version 5) Foundation. This single-entry point provides comprehensive coverage of the framework and prepares you for advanced certifications.

Building on ITIL® 4: Your ITIL® 4 Foundation certification continues to hold value. Depending on your current level, you have several transition options:

• ITIL® 4 Foundation holders can use their certification as a prerequisite for Version 5 advanced modules
• ITIL® 4 Practice Manager or Strategic Leader professionals can transition through the 3-day ITIL® (Version 5) Transformation course and exam
• ITIL® 4 Managing Professional holders can take the Managing Professional Transition course, which covers updated content in Product, Service, Experience, and Transformation through two focused exams
• ITIL® 4 Master professionals can update to ITIL® Master (Version 5) through the same 5 day Managing Professional Transition course

Updating from ITIL v3: For professionals with ITIL® v3 certifications, starting with ITIL® Version 5 Foundation provides the most comprehensive path forward. ITIL® v3 Expert holders may be eligible for the Managing Professional Transition module, subject to review.

NOTE: ITIL® (Version 5) is an evolution. Existing certifications retain value. Transition guidance is subject to confirmation following testing

WHEN CAN YOU START?

ITIL® (Version 5) courses are rolling out throughout early 2026. The Foundation course launches mid-February 2026. Most other courses will be available by late Q1 or early Q2 2026. The Managing Professional Transition course is scheduled for release toward the end of Q2 or beginning of Q3 2026.

MAKING THE DECISION

If you have already started your ITIL® 4 journey, you may wonder whether to continue with ITIL® 4 or switch to ITIL® (Version 5). Here is some practical guidance:

• If you have one course left for Strategic Leader or Practice Manager, complete your current path and then take the Transformation course and exam when it becomes available
• If you are partway to Managing Professional with two courses remaining and already scheduled, continuing with ITIL® 4 makes sense. Review the course content to ensure it fits your needs
• If you have completed only one ITIL® 4 course with no others scheduled, moving to ITIL® (Version 5) may be the better choice since your Foundation certification remains valid as a prerequisite

WHY INSTRUCTOR LED TRAINING MAKES A DIFFERENCE

While self-paced learning has its place, instructor led training delivers distinct advantages for mastering ITIL®:

• Personalized feedback and mentorship. Instructors provide real-time, tailored guidance based on your specific needs and performance. This direct interaction enables nuanced coaching that self-service content cannot replicate.
• Structured learning environment. Dedicated time and space for learning minimizes distractions and keeps you focused and accountable. A structured curriculum ensures comprehensive coverage of essential topics.
• Collaborative learning and networking. Engage in group discussions and problem-solving activities that enhance understanding and expose you to different perspectives. Build professional networks and learn from peer experiences.
• Adaptable content delivery. Experienced instructors can adjust the pace, focus, and content in real time to address audience questions and needs, ensuring material remains relevant and engaging.
• Hands on skill application. Practical exercises and role-playing scenarios allow you to apply new skills immediately under expert supervision. Instructors can correct mistakes and reinforce best practices on the spot.
• Motivation and engagement. The presence of an engaging instructor and a group of peers creates a dynamic learning environment that boosts participation, commitment, and retention.

While e-learning options for ITIL® (Version 5) will become available in the future, instructor led training provides immediate access to ITIL® (Version 5) content with the personalized guidance essential for certification success.

HOW GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE DELIVERS EXCELLENCE

As an authorized ITIL® training partner, Global Knowledge provides comprehensive ITIL® training with several key advantages:

• Extensive course catalog. Access a wide, continuously updated library of expertly curated courses covering critical skills and certifications across industries.
• Expert instructors and quality assurance. Our certified, real world subject matter experts deliver practical, engaging training. We regularly review instructor Net Promoter Scores to monitor performance, make improvements, and ensure consistent quality.
• Flexible and scalable delivery. Choose from public schedules, private cohorts, and fully customizable training solutions tailored to your organization, regardless of size or location. With virtual instructor-led training, location is no longer a barrier.
• Simple booking process. Learners can easily find and book courses online. Our sales team assists with course selection, scheduling, and arranging private group training. Instructors send materials directly to participants beforehand.

READY TO BUILD YOUR ITIL EXPERTISE?

ITIL® (Version 5) represents a thoughtful evolution that respects your existing investments while providing enhanced guidance for modern service management. Whether you are beginning your ITIL® journey or advancing your expertise, there is a clear path forward.

With Global Knowledge, you gain access to expert instruction and flexible learning options that fit your schedule and learning style. As an authorized training partner, we deliver high quality ITIL® training that drives real skill development and certification success.

The transition to ITIL® (Version 5) is designed to be smooth and supportive. Your journey toward service management excellence starts with a single step.