Performance appraisal is crucial to effective human resource management, but there is evidence that current processes are not very effective This study reports on experience with a relatively new appraisal system in the operations office of a large federal agency The method, multi-source assessment (MSA, or "360° Feedback") utilizes ratings from peers, direct-reports, the supervisor, and the employee Comparison of survey results from before and after implementation of MSA found significant improvement in employee perceptions of the fairness and effectiveness of appraisals, particularly among protected classes The implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
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