Bridging the theory-practice ITSM gap

A lack of balance exists in the amount of theory taught and practical experience gained when learning about IT service management (ITSM)-related concepts.

The emphasis on theory makes it difficult for students to associate with certain issues regarding ITSM best practice guidance, such as the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL).

This is according to Professor Reinhardt A Botha, an IT professor at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

Universities in SA do not specialise in ITSM-related education, he says. “There's some mention about best practice guidelines; however, few subjects place strong emphasis on a holistic approach to ITSM. To the best of my knowledge, no formal education programme exists at a tertiary institution in SA where the sole purpose of the course is ITSM best practice.”

Higher education in SA should include a lot more ITSM-related work, Botha says. There is scope for educational offerings with a particular focus on ITSM, especially at the postgraduate level where both industry and academia will see the benefits, he notes, adding that they need to actively look for co-operation opportunities.

Educators need to realise the difference between instruction, training and certification. Both are essential and not necessarily in competition, he continues.

Botha is a speaker at the ITWeb deliverIT ITSM Summit taking place on 20 and 21 September at The Forum, Bryanston. The summit promises to be the most topical ITSM event this year, and includes keynote speakers like Malcolm Fry, author of 'ITIL Lite', and international ITSM consultant Barclay Rae, who has worked on about 400 ITSM projects over the last 20 years.

For more information and to book your seat, please click here.