Overview
The IT4IT™ 3 Foundation Certification validates that an individual understands the terminology, structure, and fundamental concepts of the IT4IT Standard, Version 3. It confirms comprehension of the IT4IT Reference Architecture, its Value Streams, and the concept of the Digital Product as defined in the standard.
This is a knowledge‑ and comprehension‑level certification. Successful candidates earn both a certificate and an Open Badge issued by The Open Group.
Purpose of the Certification
The IT4IT 3 Foundation certification ensures that certified individuals can:
- Recognize the core components and principles of the IT4IT Standard.
- Understand how the IT4IT Reference Architecture supports modern, product‑based IT operating models.
- Describe the end‑to‑end lifecycle of a Digital Product using the IT4IT Value Streams.
- Apply foundational concepts to support digital transformation, automation, and improved operational control.
Competencies Gained
Certified individuals will demonstrate competency in the following areas:
1. IT4IT Reference Architecture
- Understanding of a prescriptive, vendor‑neutral reference architecture for managing the business of IT.
- Knowledge of the functional components, data objects, and relationships that define the Digital Product lifecycle.
2. Digital Product Lifecycle Management
- Insight into end‑to‑end lifecycle management of Digital Products, from strategy and planning through development, deployment, and operations.
3. Modern Technology Management Practices
- Guidance for transforming traditional IT management practices into faster, scalable, automated, and product‑centric approaches.
- Ability to support product‑based investment models and deliver measurable business value.
4. Architectural Flexibility
- Understanding of how the IT4IT Reference Architecture adapts to evolving operational and management paradigms, including DevOps, Agile, cloud‑native, and automation‑driven environments.
Target Audience
This certification is designed for individuals who need a foundational understanding of the IT4IT Standard and its application in modern IT organizations, including:
- Candidates pursuing IT4IT Level 1 (Foundation) certification
- IT practitioners and professionals seeking baseline knowledge of the IT4IT Reference Architecture, Value Streams, and Digital Products
- Enterprise Architects who require an end‑to‑end functional and data model for managing the digital factory
- IT strategy, financial management, and architecture practitioners transitioning from project‑based to product‑based investment and delivery models
- IT governance and audit professionals who need a prescriptive model for implementing meaningful controls in automated DevOps toolchains
Certification Outcomes
Upon completion, certified individuals will be able to:
- Explain the purpose and structure of the IT4IT Standard, Version 3.
- Identify and describe the IT4IT Value Streams and their role in Digital Product lifecycle management.
- Understand how IT4IT supports digital transformation and operational excellence.
- Communicate the benefits of adopting a product‑based IT operating model.
- Recognize how IT4IT integrates with other frameworks and practices (e.g., TOGAF®, Agile, DevOps, ITSM).