There’s a meaningful shift happening across ITIL (Version 5) advanced certifications - and it’s one worth paying attention to. Advanced courses now include open-book exams. It may feel like a shortcut at first. In reality, it’s a different kind of challenge. One centered on application, not recall. Why Open Book? A Shift Toward Real-World Application Open-book exams reflect a deeper evolution in how capability is assessed and how professionals are expected to apply what they learn. They focus on: Applying concepts in context Navigating and interpreting guidance quickly Making informed decisions using trusted sources This aligns directly with the direction of ITIL (Version 5): a move toward digital product and service management (DPSM), where success depends on how well you use knowledge, not just memorize it. In practice, this means learners need to be comfortable working with the official publications during the exam, just as they would on the job. What This ...