MANY of the North East's biggest business successes have relied on innovation whether it is from lightbulb creator Joseph Swan, steam railway pioneer George Stephenson or the team behind software giant Sage.

But bright new ideas are also important when companies look to improve the way their staff work and this will be recognised this year in awards organised by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and backed by The Journal.

The Innovation in Social Media or Technology Award is a new category at the awards which will reward the achievements made by new ideas or new ways of using technology on the development of the workforce.

The judges will be looking at work which may involve new initiatives as well as recognising the professional approach the team have taken to move the organisation forward.

This category recognises all types of innovation across the spectrum of HR&D. Organisations which have designed or delivered technology or a new approach to a standard problem are encouraged to apply.

Judges will be looking for something that is original and effective which may be IT orientated or an innovative approach to a business opportunity. Previous entries have included development of e-learning, computerised safety/HR and payroll systems and competency models.

The team will be able to demonstrate how it has created either a new culture or ensured a business has survived in difficult situations.

Companies and organisations from across the region will compete to win one of the titles at the awards which culminate in a ceremony at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead on Thursday, May 3. And this year the awards are in association with Nigel Wright Recruitment. Details of how to enter will be available each Thursday in The Journal until March 19, the closing date for entries. To enter, log on to www.journallive.co.uk/cipdawards  or contact Lesley Hampson, events manager on 0191 201 6435 or email lesley.hampson@trinitymirror.com

The award categories are:

Excellence in Developing People Award

Innovation in Social Media or Technology Award

Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace Award

HR&D Team of the Year Award

Engagement and Wellbeing Award

Change Management Project of the Year Award

Talent Attraction and Management Award

SME Excellence in HR&D Award.