ITIL 4 Automation Usage Guide

Quick Start

Option 1: Simple Batch File (Recommended for beginners)

# Navigate to the scripts folder
cd "c:\Users\New User\stevenloucks.github.io\scripts"

# Run the automation (handles Python version automatically)
run-itil.bat

# Or with options:
run-itil.bat --create-missing --full-section

Option 2: PowerShell Script

# Navigate to scripts folder
cd "c:\Users\New User\stevenloucks.github.io\scripts"

# Run with PowerShell wrapper
.\run-itil-automation.ps1

# With options:
.\run-itil-automation.ps1 -CreateMissing -FullSection

Option 3: Direct Python (if you know your Python command)

# If you have python3:
python3 itil-automation.py --help

# If you have Windows Python launcher:
py -3 itil-automation.py --help

# If you have standard python:
python itil-automation.py --help

What The Script Does

1. Scans for Lab Directories: Looks for folders starting with “lab-“
2. Checks README Files: Examines existing README.md files
3. Adds ITIL 4 Content: Inserts professional service management references
4. Creates Backups: Saves original files before modification
5. Reports Results: Shows what was processed, created, or skipped

Command Options

• --create-missing: Creates README.md files for labs that don’t have them
• --full-section: Adds complete ITIL 4 section instead of just a link
• --help: Shows detailed help information

Examples

Basic Usage (Current Directory)

run-itil.bat

Scan Specific Directory

run-itil.bat "C:\MyLabs"

Create Missing READMEs and Add Full Sections

run-itil.bat --create-missing --full-section

Troubleshooting

Python Version Prompts

If Windows asks you to choose a Python version:

1. Quick Fix: Use the batch file run-itil.bat - it handles version selection
2. Permanent Fix: Set a default Python version:

   py -3 --version
   

Python Not Found

1. Install Python from Microsoft Store (search “Python 3.11”)
2. Or install from https://python.org/downloads
3. Make sure to check “Add Python to PATH” during installation

Permission Errors

1. Run Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Or move your lab folders to a location you have write access to

Professional Benefits

This automation demonstrates several ITIL 4 principles:

• Optimize and Automate: Reduces manual documentation tasks
• Focus on Value: Ensures consistent professional documentation
• Collaborate and Promote Visibility: Standardizes knowledge sharing
• Progress Iteratively: Improves documentation incrementally

WGU BSCSIA Integration

This tool helps you:

• Demonstrate professional service management knowledge
• Apply ITIL 4 principles in practical lab work
• Create portfolio-ready documentation
• Show automation and scripting skills
• Maintain consistent professional standards across projects

Author: Steven Loucks - WGU BSCSIA Program
Last Updated: July 7, 2025