This article presents the results of a national survey of municipal government performance appraisal system practices based upon the responses of 240 personnel professionals. The survey focuses on appraisal system structure, the link between performance and personnel decision making, perceived user acceptance, and observations on the effectiveness of the appraisal system. The results indicate that most performance appraisal systems are designed in accordance with the literature. However, the administration of these systems is more problematic. Most systems are perceived to be somewhat effective in terms of the process of appraisal and the affects on motivation and productivity.
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