In the competitive landscape of IT Service Management (ITSM) in the UK, holding an ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) certification is not just an asset—it's often a requirement. A staggering 60% of ITSM job postings in the UK specify the need for ITIL qualifications, reflecting the widespread adoption of ITIL practices in the industry. This trend echoes the findings of a 2008 Axios Systems global survey, which reported that nearly 90% of organizations implement ITIL guidelines. With ITIL's structured approach to ITSM, professionals equipped with this certification are well-positioned to meet the demands of a dynamic tech sector.
The ITIL framework is a comprehensive guide for IT service management, developed by the UK's Office of Government Commerce. It encompasses a range of best practices and processes that are crucial for managing IT services effectively. The ITIL certification scheme is divided into several levels:
The demand for ITIL-certified professionals is reflected in the salary trends within the UK. In 2008, the average salary for an IT Service Manager was approximately £47,500, with many positions offering between £50,000 and £59,000 annually. Sussex reported the highest average salary for this role at £69,000.
An IT Service Manager oversees the delivery of IT services and solutions, ensuring they meet the needs of businesses and projects. For those seeking ITSM roles in the UK, reputable job sources include:
ITIL's influence extends beyond IT Service Managers. Professionals in various IT roles, such as Analysts, Test Environment Managers, Service Desk Engineers, IT Project Managers, and IT Architects, also benefit from understanding ITIL principles. The average salary for an IT professional with ITIL certification is £42,206.
ITIL's best practices are integral to the operations of numerous prominent organizations, including:
These industry giants rely on ITIL to streamline their IT services, demonstrating the framework's value and influence.
To begin the ITIL certification journey, candidates typically enroll in a three-day training course for the ITIL Foundation exam. This course provides an overview of ITIL's core principles, terminology, and the Service Lifecycle. The Foundation level is a prerequisite for advancing to higher levels of ITIL certification.
In conclusion, ITIL certification is a critical stepping stone for IT professionals aiming to excel in the field of IT Service Management. With its widespread recognition and the promise of higher salaries, ITIL offers a clear advantage in the job market. As the IT landscape continues to evolve, ITIL's structured approach remains a constant, guiding organizations and professionals toward service excellence.
All Change: Getting into Project Management
Nobody stays in one career all their life nowadays. Some go from teaching into law. Nurses enter the police force. Actors become politicians. Project Management offers the greatest opportunity for a career change. Demanding and rewarding in equal measure, it draws on transferable skills rather than industry specialisation.
Will PRINCE2 Help Me Get a Job?
Project Management as a specialised skill-set and career path is becoming increasingly prominent. Ever more new graduates are considering trainee project management roles, for the clear career progression that they offer, the satisfaction of practical application of learned skills to specific projects, and the opportunity for a varied and rewarding career across a wide variety of organisations.
Dealing with Project Failure
It is a fact of life that not every project succeeds. Sometimes the market changes and the product is no longer viable. Sometimes the budget or time constraints are untenable. Sometimes it is simply a case that somebody has made a mistake.
