Three Levels, but Not 1-2-3

The new appraisal system, partly developed in labor-management work groups, is to feature three levels of rating–level 5 (outstanding), level 3 (fully successful), and level 1 (unacceptable). That keeps the structure of the common five-level federal employee performance appraisal systems but emphasizes that only truly exceptionally good or bad performance is to be singled out. Other features are to include a rating cycle of April 1 through March 31 for all employees; a minimum period of 90 days required to be eligible for a rating; and a minimum of three performance review discussions required between the supervisor and employee within each cycle. “This program will link individual performance to DoD values and organizational mission; will ensure ongoing recognition and communication between employees and supervisors throughout the appraisal cycle; and will be critical to effective mission accomplishment and increased employee engagement,” according to a memo to components from the Pentagon office of personnel and readiness. An automated appraisal tool called MyPerformance will be used to document the performance management activities for most employees.