While the main purpose and goal of Illinois workNet has stayed the same, there have been significant changes to the format of Illinois workNet.  This means a “New” CIWA online course will be developed based on the new site tools and format.  

However, there are opportunities for you to learn about Illinois workNet starting today!  We would recommend that partners:

1. Subscribe to partner news and follow Illinois workNet social media to stay up-to-date on the new releases.  Plus, watch for opportunities (via webinar, surveys, etc.) to provide feedback. We welcome feedback!
2. Register for and participate in Illinois workNet webinars.  A webinar calendar is available on the Partner Resources page.  Webinars are archived if you are not able to participate in person.  Archived webinars are available in the Partner Resources section.
3. Use the resources that are available in the Partner Resources section of Illinois workNet.  You can always access the partner resources from the footer of Beta Illinois workNet.

New Features

The team is really excited about the new site and new format.  Some of the new features include:

• Mobile friendly (responsive design) – This means the display of the site automatically adjusts for optimal use for the device.
• New Dashboard for easy access to all user tools.  Keep in mind that new tools are in process and will be added as we continue development.
• Greater use of graphics, videos, slideshow, infographics, and printable guidance pages.  This is great for sharing via social media!
• Topic specific guidance on each page.  Plus articles that use a “blog-like” approach to provide information and guidance that can be tailored for a specific audience and/or topic.  Customers can easily comment on and share this information.
• New simplified menu offers interactive tools, guides, articles, videos, and resources for the main categories related to helping customers (individuals and employers) reach their training and  employment goals. 
• Plus, our new jobPrep App (mobile app) utilizes the new searches and articles.

Current Status

We are in the process of:

• Fine tuning the existing items that are in production based on customer feedback.
• Adding more personalization tools.
• Continuing to write articles to keep the information fresh and providing additional guidance on specific topics.
• The next big transition is moving over all of the tools for the workforce partners.  So, please make sure you subscribe to partner news and follow Illinois workNet social media to stay up-to-date.