Implementing ITIL? 10 things every IT Manager should know

As an old adage goes, ‘Change is inevitable’, however the key lies in adapting to variations and evolving stronger and successful. This holds true not only for an individual but for an organization too. A growing company is always dynamic as it faces constant changes while implementing and expanding new processes or products apart from defining other key resolutions. ITIL is an important process catering to the IT service management sector. If ITIL needs to be implemented in an organization, what are the things that one should know? How should the IT managers process this new change? Read on to know the ‘Top 10 things every IT manager should know while implementing ITIL’.

• Number 10

Implementing ITIL is a project by itself

Managers should understand the fact that a clearly devised project management plan should be in place to implement ITIL rather than yielding to impromptu activities.

• A clear vision and an overall strategy
• A key point of contact – Project Manager
• A dynamic team
• Project plan
• Defining outcomes are necessary for the project to be successful

• Number 9

It is not only ITIL, but human resources, time & money that also needs to be considered

ITIL implementation is not a cakewalk as the process takes years to settle in. Planning and managing with respect to time and anticipating a multitude of project costs such as purchase of tools, systems are vital. New processes require additional manpower. Therefore the Project Manager should foresee these changes.

• Number 8

Skilled employees are the key to any organization – Keep them aware of the changes

ITIL is a process that sets in across all levels of workforce. Therefore it is important that every employee is aware of the impending change. A holistic program should be framed which not only focuses on ITIL training but also on the organizational design, changes and quality improvement. Educating and certifying employees would be a great plan for the project to sustain and a road to faster adoption.

• Number 7

With ITIL’s entry, other processes too will feel the effect

A lot changes with the implementation of a new methodology. Since manpower, time, money are taken into consideration in any new project, the impact obviously can be seen in all these verticals. The involvement of the HR and the technology team is crucial as interrelationships with other business processes are required for transition to set in smoothly.

• Number 6

A clear Communication plan is vital

Communication is the key for new processes to be translated across different levels and provides a direction for the neat execution of the plan. A framework on the ‘what and who’ needs to be laid and communicated across different mediums, for employees to be aware of any kind of transitions.

• Number 5

Active participation and commitment makes a big change

New processes should be first embraced by the senior management and cascaded to the succeeding layers. This affirms the commitment and the value to the new project.  By holding on to the vision and creating a sense of urgency to set things going, the management can be the motivating force for the successful execution of the project.

• Number 4

Change in a small level impacts at a larger level too

Organizations, in order to adapt to new methodologies have to go through a continuous improvement cycle. This changes the organization’s behavior, beliefs, procedures, values and the corporate climate to a large extent. Therefore it is important to be prepared to dwell in the changes.

• Number 3

Fight against resistance to move forward

Change and resistance are inseparable. It is significant for the top management to identify this aspect and fine tune the organization accordingly to accept the variation and go forward. Identifying areas of change and drafting plans will help to sail through such situations effectively.

• Number 2

Involve everyone to transit seamlessly

Unity in any crisis is important. Similarly a huge change in an organization cannot be managed by a single individual. It is important that employees are involved and their ideas are taken to build a single process. Stakeholders too, make valuable contribution, so it is important for more people to be involved so as to create a sense of responsibility.

• Number 1

Implementing ITIL is worth it.

ITIL implementation is sure to give improved business results, efficiency and service delivery. It will also provide a leading edge to every organization. Therefore it is important to gain a good understanding of ITIL best practices and adopt it according to every organization’s need. Interested in getting re-skilled through an ITIL certification? Click here to know more.

Reference:
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