DD Form 355 Employee Suggestion: Submit Ideas & Get Rewards – DoD civilian employees play a vital role in improving government operations through innovative ideas. The DD Form 355 Employee Suggestion is the official tool to submit suggestions that can lead to significant cost savings, efficiency improvements, and personal rewards. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the form, submission process, and the DoD Incentive Awards Program.
What Is DD Form 355?
DD Form 355, titled “Employee Suggestion,” is a standardized Department of Defense (DoD) form used by eligible employees to submit constructive ideas for improving government operations. Issued in July 1999 (with updates noted as of 2024), it is primarily associated with the Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) and related components like OSD and JS.
The form supports the broader DoD policy of encouraging employee participation in enhancing efficiency, economy, safety, and service delivery. Adopted suggestions can result in tangible benefits (e.g., cost savings) or intangible benefits (e.g., improved methods), qualifying submitters for monetary or honorary awards.
Benefits of Submitting a Suggestion via DD Form 355
Participating in the Employee Suggestion Program offers multiple advantages:
- Monetary Awards: Cash incentives based on tangible savings or intangible value, often shared across benefiting organizations.
- Recognition: Formal acknowledgment through the Incentive Awards Board.
- Career Impact: Demonstrates initiative and contributes to mission success.
- Government-Wide Impact: Your idea could improve operations across DoD components.
DoD policy emphasizes rewarding ideas that lead to cost reductions, process improvements, safety enhancements, or other operational gains.
Who Can Use DD Form 355?
The form is intended for DoD civilian employees, particularly those under WHS, OSD, Joint Staff, or other specified organizations. Military personnel may have separate channels for suggestions. All submissions must follow official government channels to ensure proper evaluation and potential awards.
How to Fill Out DD Form 355: Step-by-Step Instructions?
Follow these official instructions from the form:
- Complete Items 2–11 in Section I (General Information), all of Section II (Suggestion), and the return address in Section IV.
- Provide a complete description of your suggestion in Section II, including the current practice, proposed change, implementation details, and expected benefits. Use additional sheets and attach drawings if needed.
- Forward the completed form to the designated address for the Executive Secretary to the Incentive Awards Board.
Key sections include:
- Subject of Suggestion
- Personal and organizational details
- Whether the suggestion should be processed anonymously
- Certification agreeing to no further claims
- Expected benefits (save time/material, improve methods/safety, etc.)
Supervisors may provide optional evaluation in Section III if relevant.
DD Form 355 Download and Resources
Download Official DD Form 355 PDF
Always use the latest version from the official Executive Services Directorate (ESD) website for accuracy.
Submission and Evaluation Process
Once submitted:
- The suggestion is routed to the Executive Secretary of the Incentive Awards Board.
- It undergoes evaluation by the relevant operating activity for feasibility.
- The Incentive Awards Board reviews it.
- You receive notification of adoption (with award) or rejection (with explanation).
Processing takes time—be patient as thorough review ensures quality decisions.
Tips for a Successful Employee Suggestion
- Focus on specific, actionable improvements with clear benefits.
- Include supporting data, calculations for potential savings, or diagrams.
- Describe both the problem and your proposed solution in detail.
- Consider impacts on safety, efficiency, costs, and operations.
- Ensure the idea goes beyond routine duties or basic maintenance.
Related DoD Awards and Incentive Programs
The Employee Suggestion Program is part of a larger framework for recognizing superior performance, special acts, and inventions. Awards can include cash (based on savings), time-off, or honorary recognition. Recent DoD emphasis highlights meaningful monetary rewards for high performers and innovative contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is DD Form 355 still current?
Yes, the July 1999 edition remains the active form, with noted updates.
Can I submit anonymously?
Yes, the form includes an option for anonymous processing.
What types of suggestions qualify?
Ideas that improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance safety, simplify work, or provide other tangible/intangible benefits to the government.
For the most authoritative information, refer to official DoD directives on incentive awards.