Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation Practice Exam

What type of change is categorized as pre-authorized by change management to optimize efficiency?

1. A service request

2. A change request

3. A normal change

4. A standard change

The correct answer is: A standard change

The correct type of change categorized as pre-authorized by change management to optimize efficiency is known as a standard change. Standard changes are defined as low-risk, relatively common, and follow a predefined procedure that has already been approved. Their pre-authorization means that they can be quickly implemented without undergoing the full rigorous change management process, which helps organizations maintain service delivery speed and efficiency. Standard changes are typically well-documented and understood by the organization, which allows for predictable outcomes. Examples might include routine updates or a replacement of a component that follows a standard process and has a low impact on services. By converting these predictable changes into standard changes, organizations can avoid unnecessary delays and focus their resources on reviewing and approving more significant or complex changes that require deeper scrutiny and risk assessment. In contrast, service requests might involve seeking access to services or changes that do not fall within the standardized categories. Change requests can refer to any type of proposed modification that needs to be reviewed and approved, which does not guarantee efficiency. Normal changes usually require a formal approval process and are not pre-authorized—often involving more risk and complexity compared to standard changes.