What is the purpose of the New Idea process?

The purpose of the New Idea program is to outline a clear and simple process for the entire campus community to participate in the generation of new ideas for the University to consider to advance its mission and vision as outlined in the Strategic Plan.   

What is the New Idea?

A “New Idea” is an idea that is formed into a prospectus and submitted into the New Idea process.  New Ideas can be large or small and migrate through several phases from initial submission including proposal development, evaluation, rejection or implementation.  While New Ideas can be about anything, most will be submitted with a purpose to significantly advance the University’s mission, vision, reputation, or recognition, bring greater alignment between academic and strategic investment priorities, transform the impact the University has on society and/or excite students, faculty, staff, donors, and other community leaders.

Who can submit an idea?

Anyone within the University community (students, faculty, and staff) can submit a brief prospectus outlining a New Idea. 

How do I submit a New idea?

A standard prospectus form has been created to simplify the process. You can create text within the electronic form or you can copy and paste from another document into the appropriate section. The form can be found at http://www.valpo.edu/newidea/form.php

I’m not sure I have enough information to write a prospectus; what information do I need to provide about my New Idea?

It’s simple! To get started we basically need a description, the rationale, estimated demand, costs, and benefits/return. Click on this link to learn more http://www.valpo.edu/newidea/form.php

My New Idea has a significant academic or curriculum component in it. Is there a separate procedure for submitting prospectuses for new academic programs?

The first step in the New Idea evaluation process includes the assessment of the New Idea by the appropriate academic unit or campus department.  Therefore, all New Ideas are submitted to the same place.

What happens to my New Idea if it does not move to the proposal stage?

While some New Ideas that do not advance to the proposal stage will be rejected outright, some will be placed in an idea “bank” for future consideration.  Rest assured, all new idea submitters will receive communication regarding the status of their idea as it moves through the New Idea process.

What will I need to do if my New Idea moves to the proposal stage?

You may be asked to provide only specific elements of a full proposal, or you may be asked to prepare a full proposal.  The proposal will contain more fully developed information than the prospectus including a more detailed description of the program, background information, a business plan, market analysis, financial analysis, time schedule for implementation, and supporting materials.

I’m not sure I have the expertise needed to develop a proposal; where can I go for help?

The New Idea site has a section called “Ask A Question” that can serve as an initial source for assistant.  Additionally, the Dean and/or Vice President who would have eventual oversight responsibilities once your proposed New Idea becomes a reality may be able to provide assistance.

I want to ask additional questions, where can I do that?

Click the “Ask A Question”  button on the New Idea site or simply send an email message to new.Idea@valpo.edu.