The best approach for validating service value in a partnership relationship with a service consumer is to work together to identify methods of checking service value andcheck that value propositions are still valid. This is because this approach aligns with the ITIL 4 guiding principles of focus on value, collaborate and promote visibility, and progress iteratively with feedback1.

By working together, the service provider and the service consumer can co-create value and ensure that the services delivered meet the needs and expectations of the service consumer and other stakeholders. They can also share information and feedback, and adjust the services accordingly to respond to changing requirements and opportunities. Moreover, they can jointly define the criteria and indicators for measuring and validating the value of the services, such as the outcomes, costs, risks, and benefits23.

The value propositions of the services are the statements that describe the benefits and value that the services offer to the service consumer and other stakeholders. They are based on the understanding of the service consumer’s needs, preferences, and goals. The value propositions should be regularly reviewed and validated to ensure that they are still relevant and accurate, and that they reflect the current and future value of the services45.

The other options are not the best approach for validating service value, because they are either too narrow, too passive, or too reactive. They do not involve the active collaboration and co-creation of value between the service provider and the service consumer, nor do they account for the complexity and agility of the services provided.

References: 1: ITIL 4 Foundation: ITIL 4 Edition, AXELOS, 2019, p. 13-15 2: ITIL 4 Direct, Plan and Improve, AXELOS, 2019, p. 97-98 3: Reporting on value in service management, AXELOS, 2021, 3 4: ITIL 4 Create, Deliver and Support, AXELOS, 2019, p. 17-18 5: ITIL 4 Drive Stakeholder Value, AXELOS, 2019, p. 25-26