How companies can use idea management effectively
For many companies, idea management is a key tool for discovering new ideas and promoting innovation in the long term. During implementation, those responsible often encounter questions as to how they can involve those involved and disseminate good ideas within the company. Guidance along a structured process can provide support. For example, the KIROI concept helps companies to systematically unleash company-wide ideas, particularly in the seventh step - in other words, to ensure that innovations are not only created in individual areas, but also become effective across the board.
Impulses for a culture-promoting cooperation in idea management
Many teams report that it first takes courage to move ideas forward. Open communication is therefore at the top of the list. If employees are informed transparently about the status of the proposals submitted, they feel that they are taken seriously and motivated to actively participate. This reduces inhibitions and creates a culture of mutual exchange. When implementing ideas in practice, it can be useful to provide support during the process so that everyone involved knows what steps they need to take and how they can get involved.
Companies report that it is precisely this type of collaboration that revitalises creative processes. This applies to companies in the production sector, for example, which are digitising processes through targeted idea management, thereby increasing efficiency. Other examples include HR departments that use AI-supported tools to improve application processes, which makes life easier for everyone involved. In sales, on the other hand, new approaches are being developed by analysing customer data to make service more customer-oriented.
KIROI BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) In a medium-sized production facility, an idea from the sales department was adapted: There, AI-based forecasts were used to improve sales figures for individual product lines. This concept was then transferred to warehouse management, which optimised inventory planning and reduced overproduction. The cross-divisional transfer of knowledge strengthened the company's flexibility in the face of market changes in the long term.
How a structured process boosts idea management
A clearly defined process is essential for effective idea management. It includes steps from idea generation to recording and evaluation through to implementation. Digital platforms help to document all ideas centrally and make them transparent for everyone involved. This means that no suggestions are overlooked and progress can be tracked at any time. It is important to actively involve employees and obtain their feedback, as this increases motivation.
Automated processes can also help to reduce the workload. For example, notifications can be sent automatically to those who are required in the next step. Different roles for responsibilities in the process also help to create clarity and control the processing of ideas in a targeted manner. Flexibility is also important so that special processes can take effect for complex ideas if necessary.
KIROI BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) A service company established a digital portal that maps the entire idea management process. Ideas are submitted there, evaluation criteria are stored and feedback is communicated directly to the idea providers. Automatic transitions between process steps take the pressure off employees. The clear allocation of roles ensures that the right people make the decisions and drive implementation steps forward.
The importance of feedback and recognition in idea management
An often underestimated component is consistent feedback to idea providers. Anyone who receives feedback on their proposal feels valued and is more willing to continue participating. This recognition does not always have to be material, but is often sufficient in the form of praise or transparent information about the current status. Such appreciation promotes a culture of innovation in which new thinking thrives and employees realise that their contributions can really make a difference.
Many companies report that regular updates on project successes and the visualisation of changes resulting from ideas strengthen motivation and trust. In addition to feedback, the involvement of idea providers in follow-up processes can also be useful. In this way, they learn which path an idea takes and how it is further supported.
KIROI BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) In a technical company, idea providers are involved in the implementation process. They receive feedback and participate in pilot projects, which leads to greater acceptance and better solutions. Appreciation is also reflected in the fact that successful ideas are visibly presented on the intranet and the originators receive praise from the management. These measures strengthen the spirit of innovation and team cohesion.
My analysis
Successful idea management is based on more than simply collecting good suggestions. It requires a structured process that serves as a guide, in which employees are involved and informed transparently. The seventh step in the KIROI model shows how a company-wide network of ideas can be inspired by promoting an open culture and encouraging cross-departmental collaboration. With supportive guidance, managers can design processes that enable sustainable innovation - without making unrealistic promises. Clients often report that regular feedback and recognition make a decisive difference in keeping ideas alive and implementing them effectively.
Further links from the text above:
[1] What is idea management? Definition, procedures and proven methods
[2] Idea management: Processes - Crowdworx
[3] KIROI step 7 - Unleash innovation across the organisation
For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Contact us on the topic or read more blog posts on the topic Artificial Intelligence Blog here.
Deutsch 
English (UK)