A Process Approach to Performance Management

By Dr. Stephen C. Schoonover

Performance management is always a controversial topic. In most organizations, it is limited to appraisals alone. In some, it encompasses a loose process comprised of goal and standard setting, intermittent coaching, and year-end performance evaluation. In very few organizations, performance management is viewed as a more comprehensive approach to leveraging human assets that includes identifying, measuring, and developing human performance. No matter what defined scope is involved, performance management in most settings is considered a “necessary evil,” usually driven by the need to evaluate employees for retention, work assignments, promotability, and pay.