If you work in technology, you know that the only constant is change. However, what we have experienced in recent years has not been just “change,” but a true digital metamorphosis. It is in this context of unprecedented acceleration that ITIL 5 was born.

But why did the market need a new version so soon after ITIL 4? And, more importantly, what do you and your organization gain from it? Let’s explore the reasons behind this evolution and the practical benefits it brings.

Also read: The Definitive Guide to ITIL 5

Why Did ITIL Need to Evolve?

The short answer is: the world changed, and AI is here to stay. When the previous version was released, Artificial Intelligence was still a distant promise for many operational processes. Today, it is the engine of productivity.

Here are the three pillars that drove this evolution:

AI-Native and Complexity-Ready: Version 5 was designed for environments where humans collaborate directly with technology. It does not treat AI as an “add-on,” but as a native capability that enables faster decision-making and better management of complex systems.

The End of the “Product” vs. “Service” Divide: In the past, IT handled the “service” and the business handled the “product.” Today, a banking app is both at the same time. ITIL v5 integrates this end-to-end perspective.

Total Focus on Digital Experience: It is no longer enough for systems to be “up and running” (availability). Users must have a smooth, frictionless journey. The new version places stakeholder experience at the center stage.

The Major Benefits of Version 5

Adopting the new ITIL is not just about adding a new badge to your résumé. It is about adopting a mindset prepared for Industry 5.0 — human-centered, sustainable, and resilient.

1. Holistic View: From the C-Level to Operations

The new structure helps break down silos. It connects executive strategy directly to day-to-day activities. This ensures that every task performed by the IT team is truly creating value for the business.

2. Agility with Governance

One of today’s biggest challenges is being fast without being reckless. ITIL v5 introduces practical guidance on AI Governance, enabling organizations to adopt technological innovations ethically and safely while minimizing unknown risks.

3. Intelligent Optimization

Version 5 teaches a critical principle: do not automate chaos. The rule is: optimize first, automate later. With the help of AI, the framework helps identify bottlenecks in value streams and eliminate waste with much greater precision.

4. Flexibility in Operating Models

Not every organization is the same. The new version provides Value Chain Patterns that adapt to everything from startups building software from scratch to large enterprises integrating third-party services.

The Certification Path: What Has Changed?

For those seeking specialization, the qualification structure has become clearer and more robust. The scheme now includes streams focused on specific competencies:

• ITIL Practice Manager (PM): For professionals focused on hands-on operational practices.

• ITIL Managing Professional (MP): For managers who must master the full lifecycle of products and services.

• ITIL Strategic Leader (SL): For those responsible for digital strategy and direction.

A noteworthy addition is the ITIL Transformation module, which sits at the heart of all designations. It teaches how to apply knowledge to drive real organizational change.

Tip for those already certified: If you hold ITIL 4 Foundation, it is still recognized as a prerequisite for Version 5 advanced modules. You do not lose what you have achieved — you simply gain new horizons to explore.

Conclusion

ITIL (Version 5) is not a revolution that discards the past, but a necessary evolution. It reflects the world we live in: fast-paced, data-driven, and dependent on seamless digital experiences.

For organizations, the benefit is a more resilient operation aligned with profitability and sustainability. For professionals, it is the opportunity to master the language of growth in the age of artificial intelligence.

Are you ready for this evolution?