With ITIL Version 5 —also referred to by PeopleCert as “The new ITIL”—this globally established framework continues to evolve and respond to the needs of modern, digital organizations. At its core is a unified Digital Product & Service Lifecycle that takes a holistic view of products, services, value streams, and organizations—from the initial idea through continuous improvement.
There is a particular emphasis on practical application. ITIL Version 5 is less theoretical, more experience-driven, and clearly focused on measurable results. At the same time, customer experience and employee experience are taking center stage and are recognized as integral components of value creation.
Another new feature is the AI-native approach: ITIL Version 5 takes into account the use of artificial intelligence across all modules and provides guidance on governance, decision-making, and the responsible use of AI. This is complemented by clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and outcomes that facilitate implementation in day-to-day operations.
The certification framework has also been restructured. Building on the ITIL Version 5 Foundation, three distinct learning paths lead to recognized designations: Practice Manager, Managing Professional, and Strategic Leader. Those who achieve all three attain the highest certification level, ITIL Master.
ITIL Version 5 is therefore not a radical departure, but rather a logical evolution—with the goal of making ITIL even more effective, easier to understand, and better suited to the digital reality.
What training courses are available for ITIL Version 5?
A clearly structured training and certification system is available for ITIL Version 5. The entry-level certification is the ITIL Version 5 Foundation, which covers the fundamentals, terminology, and the new overall model. Building on this foundation, participants can pursue various career paths.
The ITIL Version 5 Practice Manager modules are available for operational implementation, including the following tracks: Monitor, Support & Fulfil; Plan, Implement & Control; and Collaborate, Assure & Improve. Those who wish to manage ITIL Version 5 holistically should choose the ITIL Version 5 Managing Professional track, which includes the Product, Service, Experience, and Transformation modules. For strategic responsibility, the ITIL Version 5 Strategic Leader track is intended, consisting of Strategy and Transformation.
In addition, there are specialized training courses such as ITIL Version 5 AI Governance as well as the ITIL Version 5 Transition (Bridge) for ITIL professionals who are already certified in earlier versions. All tracks build logically on one another and enable individualized, practical professional development all the way to the ITIL Master certification.
Find all the answers about ITIL Version 5 in our comprehensive FAQ
ITIL Version 5 introduces new concepts, new certification paths, and many detailed questions. In our comprehensive ITIL Version 5 FAQ , we’ve clearly summarized the most important information—from differences compared to ITIL 4 to the certification framework, as well as questions about the transition, exams, and training.
The FAQ is intended for both beginners and experienced ITIL professionals and provides guidance on orientation, planning, and decision-making related to ITIL Version 5. If you’d like to know which training is right for you, how existing certifications can be applied, or what specific changes have been made, you’ll find all the relevant answers in one place.
