Before you write up your idea, read more about how ESP works so you can increase your chances of making a winning suggestion. On this Web site, read the sections called FAQs and Eligibility Requirements . You may want to look at the section on ESP winners, too, so you will know if an idea has already been suggested and recommended for adoption. Successful suggestions generally save money, improve efficiency or safety, or increase revenue.

The best way to submit a suggestion is by using the form on the Web. This ensures that your suggestion gets into the system right away, and you receive a turnaround confirmation. The Web form explains how to send attachments if you need to include further information like a picture or chart. Employees may also obtain a form from their Agency ESP Coordinator and mail or fax their suggestions to DHRM.

Steps to submit your idea:

• Do the preparation work so you will know what you're talking about.
• Review Eligibility Requirements and the FAQs.
• Go to the Employee Suggestion Form.
• Read the self-screening questions.
• If your idea is eligible, write up the suggestion by answering the questions on the form.
• Send it in!

Then What Happens?

• When your suggestion is received, DHRM screens it for completeness and general eligibility and forwards it for evaluation to the agency where a subject-matter expert can be found.
• The Agency ESP Coordinator then directs the suggestion to an employee qualified to evaluate the merits of the proposal. You remain anonymous during the evaluation process because your name and other identifying information are not sent, only what you have written in the suggestion itself.
• After reviewing your suggestion, the evaluator returns the result to the Agency ESP Coordinator, who sends it to DHRM. You will receive notification from DHRM as to whether your suggestion has been approved.
• If you are not satisfied with the results of the evaluation, you may request another review of your proposal. This request should be made in writing to DHRM at esp@dhrm.virginia.gov within 30 days of receiving the notification that your suggestion is not recommended for adoption.

The Fine Print

• Suggestions remain valid for one year from their submission.
• Cash awards normally are paid after one year so that savings can be calculated to determine the award amount. Awards are subject to federal, state, and local taxes that will be withheld according to applicable regulations.
• Decisions made by the Employee Suggestion Program are final. However, if new or additional information is presented, a decision will be reviewed.
• The ESP has the exclusive right to set award policy and structure. The state retains the right to terminate or change the Employee Suggestion Program at any time.
• The use of employee suggestions by the state shall not be the basis of further claims of any kind by the suggester, or the suggesters' heirs or assigns.
• Other requirements and rules are contained in the Employee Suggestion Program Administrative Manual.