Avanti West Coast rolls out scheme for employees ideas

Avanti West Coast has launched a new scheme to encourage employees to submit ideas for improving the business and customer experience. 

The ‘Ignite a Change’ programme uses an online platform developed with Sideways 6, an idea management software company. 

It lets staff put forward suggestions to solve business challenges, with the system grouping similar ideas and suggesting related topics so employees can work together on proposals. 

The cloud-based software works on the web or app and has been integrated with tools already in use by Avanti West Coast staff, including Microsoft Teams.

The idea management software uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help automate submitting, reviewing and acting on suggestions, ensuring every idea is acknowledged. 

The scheme is open to all staff, who can view, comment on or vote on proposals. 

Some of the first ideas set to be rolled out include allowing employees to apologise and resolve customer issues on the spot, and improving announcements on board.

Anita Brown, head of innovation and engagement at Avanti West Coast, said: “Our people have amazing ideas to improve how we deliver our service.