Decision Guides
Guide 1: ITIL v5 Adoption Approach
Starting question: How should your organization adopt ITIL v5?
Step 1: Do you currently have an ITIL implementation (any version)?
YES → Go to Step 2
NO → Go to Step 3
Step 2: How mature is your current ITIL implementation?
Level 1-2 (Initial/Repeatable): Your foundation is weak. Start with ITIL v5 Foundation training for key staff, then implement core practices (Incident, Problem, Change, Service Desk) from scratch using v5 concepts. Recommended approach: Fresh start with v5.
Level 3 (Defined): You have solid processes. Focus on the differences between your current version and v5: lifecycle model (8 stages), governance as a component, AI governance, complexity contexts. Recommended approach: Evolutionary upgrade.
Level 4-5 (Managed/Optimizing): You are already mature. Adopt v5 strategically: focus on new capabilities (AI governance, experience management, PESTLE) rather than re-implementing what works. Recommended approach: Selective adoption of new capabilities.
Step 3: (No existing ITIL) How large is your IT organization?
Under 50 staff: Start with 5 core practices: Incident Management, Change Enablement, Service Desk, Knowledge Management, Continual Improvement. Add more as maturity grows. Recommended: Lean start.
50-500 staff: Implement the full lifecycle model with 12-15 practices. Use the Implementation Roadmap (6-phase approach). Recommended: Structured rollout.
Over 500 staff: Full framework adoption with governance, multiple practice groups, and a dedicated transformation team. Use the ITIL Transformation Model. Recommended: Enterprise transformation program.
Summary of adoption approaches
| Approach | When to Use | Duration | Investment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh start with v5 | New to ITIL or low maturity | 12-18 months | Medium |
| Evolutionary upgrade | Existing ITIL 3/4 at level 3+ | 6-12 months | Low-Medium |
| Selective adoption | High maturity, adopting new v5 features | 3-6 months | Low |
| Lean start | Small team, first ITIL implementation | 3-6 months | Low |
| Structured rollout | Mid-size organization | 12-18 months | Medium |
| Enterprise transformation | Large organization | 18-36 months | High |
Reference: Implementation Roadmap, Decision Framework
Related pages
- Implementation Roadmap (phased adoption guidance)
- Maturity Model (organizational readiness)
- Governance (governance patterns)
- Complexity-Based Decisions (four contexts)
- AI Strategy for ITSM (AI capability framework)
- Self-Assessment Quizzes (test your understanding)