Note: This was originally published in 2016 and explains the ITIL V3 lifecycle phase "Release, Control, and Validation (RCV)." In 2024, in ITIL 4, the concepts of RCV are integrated into various practices.  Please read this updated post for current information  What is RCV? (Updated for ITIL 4 Practitioners) For a more detailed understanding, ITIL 4 Specialist modules like " Create, Deliver and Support " offer comprehensive coverage of these practices in a modern context. While CDS doesn't replace RCV, it's the course that covers these concepts. RCV stands for Release, Control, and Validate. These are critical activities that are required for every deployment. Proper Release, Control, and Validation (RCV) is achieved as a result of integrated process activities. In today's dynamic business climate, service outages cause real bottom-line impact to the business. Mature processes are critical in enabling IT organizations to smoothly transition new and c...