To consistently provide high quality digital products and services that meet customer needs in an efficient manner, IT departments need a strategy that can combine agility with process optimisation.
Developing an understanding of both ITIL® 4 and Agile methodologies can allow individuals and organisations to streamline processes providing more consistent results, increase customer satisfaction, and improve service delivery.
What are the similarities and differences between ITIL® 4 and Agile?
ITIL 4 and Agile provide different approaches to management. ITIL 4 provides a more structured, process-driven approach to IT service management, whereas Agile teaches a flexible, adaptable approach to development and project management.
However, by integrating both, organisations can co-create value for stakeholders as they share a common focus on continuous improvement, flexibility and creating a culture of innovation, collaboration, and responsiveness.
What are the benefits for organisations and individuals in combining both approaches?
ITIL 4 has been developed to compliment Agile ways of working, and can benefit in the following ways:
- Embedding a customer centric approach: With the introduction of value streams within ITIL 4, individuals can integrate Agile techniques, such as sprints and continuous delivery, to effectively co-create value and provide digital services that meet the needs and expectations of customers
- Service agility: Combining the two approaches enables organisations to respond to market changes and customer needs faster, and increase speed to market for digital products and services
- Team collaboration: Both Agile and ITIL 4 advocate the empowerment of teams and stakeholders, by fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, transparency, autonomy, and accountability. This commitment to the team also helps to encourage individual employees to take ownership of their work, leading to higher engagement and overall performance
- Adaptability: By incorporating Agile project management methodologies, including SCRUM, with ITIL 4, ITSM professionals can effectively prioritise work, track progress, and deliver services effectively. While applying Agile principles with ITIL 4 practices, such as change management, can enable a flexible and iterative approach to service management
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Want to learn more?
We offer all of the ITIL 4 modules needed to achieve the Managing Professional and Strategic Leader designations, via e-learning, virtual and classroom training. Book training here!
Alternatively, if you’re interested in Agile, we have a range of project management training courses available at ILXGroup.com.