Standards Comparison

    ITIL

    Voluntary
    2019

    Global best-practice framework for IT service management

    VS

    AS9100

    Mandatory
    2016

    International standard for aerospace quality management systems.

    Quick Verdict

    ITIL provides flexible ITSM best practices for IT organizations worldwide, while AS9100 mandates rigorous QMS certification for aerospace firms. ITIL drives service efficiency voluntarily; AS9100 ensures product safety and supply chain integrity, often contractually required for market access.

    IT Service Management

    ITIL

    ITIL 4 Framework for IT Service Management

    Cost
    €€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    12-18 months

    Key Features

    • Service Value System enables end-to-end value co-creation
    • 34 flexible practices across general, service, technical management
    • Seven guiding principles direct holistic decision-making
    • Four dimensions balance people, processes, partners, technology
    • Continual improvement model embedded in all activities
    Quality Management

    AS9100

    AS9100D: Quality Management Systems - Requirements

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    12-18 months

    Key Features

    • Configuration management for product integrity
    • Product safety processes across lifecycle
    • Counterfeit parts prevention controls
    • Operational risk management in Clause 8
    • Enhanced supplier and supply chain controls

    Detailed Analysis

    A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.

    ITIL Details

    What It Is

    ITIL 4 is a globally recognized framework of best practices for IT Service Management (ITSM). Originally the Information Technology Infrastructure Library, it now stands alone, focusing on aligning IT services with business needs across the full lifecycle. Its value-driven approach uses the Service Value System (SVS) to foster co-creation of value through flexible guidelines rather than rigid processes.

    Key Components

    The SVS integrates seven guiding principles (e.g., Focus on Value, Progress Iteratively), governance, a six-activity Service Value Chain, 34 practices (14 general, 17 service, 3 technical), and continual improvement. Supported by four dimensions (organizations/people, information/technology, partners/suppliers, value streams/processes), it offers certifications from Foundation to Strategic Leader via PeopleCert.

    Why Organizations Use It

    Adopted by 87% of IT organizations, ITIL drives cost efficiencies, 20% faster resolutions, risk reduction amid $3M+ breaches, and ROI up to 38:1. It enhances alignment, quality, and agility with DevOps/Agile, building trust and reputation in hybrid/cloud environments.

    Implementation Overview

    Phased via a ten-step roadmap: assessment, gap analysis, tailoring, training, tool integration. Suited for all sizes/industries; SMEs tailor selectively. No mandatory audits, but certifications validate competence. (178 words)

    AS9100 Details

    What It Is

    AS9100D (AS9100:2016) is the international quality management system (QMS) certification standard for aviation, space, and defense organizations. Built on ISO 9001:2015, it adds over 100 aerospace-specific requirements using a risk-based, process-oriented approach focused on safety-critical integrity and supply chain assurance.

    Key Components

    • Core clauses (4-10) cover context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, and improvement.
    • Aerospace additions: configuration management (8.1.2), product safety (8.1.3), counterfeit parts prevention (8.1.4), operational risk (8.1.1), human factors, and enhanced supplier controls.
    • Aligned with Annex SL structure; requires documented processes, KPIs, and continual improvement.
    • Certification via accredited third-party audits (Stage 1/2, surveillance, recertification).

    Why Organizations Use It

    • Mandated by OEMs for market access and supplier qualification.
    • Reduces defects, improves delivery, cuts costs; enhances traceability and safety.
    • Builds stakeholder trust via OASIS database visibility.
    • Drives competitive edge in high-reliability industries.

    Implementation Overview

    • Phased: gap analysis, process design, training, internal audits, certification (6-18 months).
    • Applies to manufacturers, designers, MROs globally; scales by size/complexity.
    • Involves cross-functional teams, digital tools, supplier integration.

    Key Differences

    Scope

    ITIL
    IT Service Management lifecycle and practices
    AS9100
    Aerospace Quality Management System operations

    Industry

    ITIL
    All IT organizations worldwide
    AS9100
    Aviation, space, defense sectors globally

    Nature

    ITIL
    Voluntary best-practices framework
    AS9100
    Certification standard based on ISO 9001

    Testing

    ITIL
    No formal certification; internal assessments
    AS9100
    Third-party audits; annual surveillance

    Penalties

    ITIL
    No legal penalties; lost benefits
    AS9100
    Certification loss; contract disqualification

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about ITIL and AS9100

    ITIL FAQ

    AS9100 FAQ

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