The first edition of this book is regarded as a classic in its field. Now, in an expanded and updated version of The Art of Service's book, the authors once again present a step-by-step guide to getting into ITIL v3 RCV.

To implement new services in a controlled and cost-effective manner IT departments must successfully implement Release, Control and Validation (RCV) best practices.

This book covers practical guidance on the design and implementation of integrated end-to-end processes based on proven industry best practice guidelines.

It provides in-depth knowledge of the ITIL® RCV areas: Change Management, Release and Deployment Management, Service Validation and Testing, Service Asset and Configuration Management, Request Fulfillment, Service Evaluation and Knowledge Management.

Release, Control and Validation Best Practices is designed to complement the certified ITIL V3 Capability Programs for IT Service Management. This book focuses on describing the industry best practices for the release, control and validation of services, including:

- Change Management: The process that realizes successful service transition
- Release and Deployment Management: The process that ensures the proper building, testing and deploying of a release
- Service Validation and Testing: The process that ensures the integrity and the quality of service transition
- Service Evaluation: The process that considers whether the performance and value of a service is acceptable
- Request Fulfillment: The process that ensures the effective and expedient fulfillment of service requests and provides a standard for evaluation
- Service Asset & Configuration Management: The process that monitors the state of service transition
- Knowledge Management: The process that enhances the ongoing management decision support and service delivery capability

The information provided in this book is based on version 3 of the ITIL® framework, predominantly focusing on the volume of Service Transition. Other guidance provided includes:

- Suggested templates and criteria for implementing Release, Control and Validation (RCV) processes.
- Explanation of the more abstract ITIL concepts to improve understanding.
- Review questions to assist study for the ITIL Intermediate Capability RCV exam.

Considering the increasing number of IT Professionals and their Organizations who want to be actively involved in IT Service Management, this book should do at least as well as the first edition, which is a bestseller.