Innovative Ideas Contest

The Illinois Department of Transportation’s Innovative Ideas Contest is an annual challenge that encourages employees to share original ideas that result in improved service for the traveling public and potential savings for taxpayers.

In 2018, the contest’s inaugural year, more than 100 Operations ideas were submitted to the internal selection committee. Submissions were evaluated by size and scope of the problem, creativity in coming up with a solution, ability to implement statewide, and potential to save time, money or other valuable resources for the state.

The first year was so successful that the contest was expanded department wide, and in 2019, more than 180 ideas were submitted. Forty finalists showcased their work in March at the Central Office in Springfield and an awards ceremony honored the winners.

For 2020 and 2021, the showcase was successfully transitioned to a virtual format in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Innovations were exhibited via videos and posters on the department’s intranet site, and all staff were invited to participate by voting for their favorites.