Suggestion System
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A suggestion system is a structured process for collecting, evaluating, and implementing employee improvement ideas with recognition and feedback.
Definition
A suggestion system is a structured process for soliciting, collecting, evaluating, and implementing employee ideas for improvement. Effective systems include clear submission processes, rapid evaluation and feedback, implementation support, and recognition for contributors. Japanese companies like Toyota receive millions of suggestions annually—most small improvements implemented quickly. The key differentiator from "suggestion boxes" is the systematic response: ideas get evaluated, feedback is provided, and good ideas get implemented, creating a virtuous cycle of engagement.
Examples
A suggestion system tracked ideas from submission to implementation. Operators submitted an average of 10 ideas per person per year. 80% were implemented within 30 days. Monthly recognition celebrated contributors. The system generated thousands of small improvements annually.
Key Points
- Structured process from idea to implementation
- Rapid response and feedback for all submissions
- Recognition for contributors (not necessarily monetary)
- High implementation rate is more important than high submission rate
Common Misconceptions
Suggestion boxes work. Traditional suggestion boxes fail because ideas disappear into a void. Effective systems provide rapid feedback, visible tracking, and demonstrated implementation. The response matters more than the collection mechanism.
Only big ideas are valuable. Most value comes from many small improvements, not rare big ideas. Systems that require elaborate justification for simple improvements discourage the high-volume participation that drives cumulative impact.