The Differences between Appraisal Schemes: Variation and Acceptability – Part I

The first of two studies concerned with the design and implementation of staff appraisal schemes. It is based on research material gathered while working on consultancy projects, designing and implementing appraisal, in five different organizations. A classification scheme is developed which can be used to describe the differences between the schemes in the five organizations, and by extension the differences between any appraisal schemes. This classification uses a basic distinction between purpose of appraisal and design features, and it is used to describe in detail the schemes implemented in two of the organizations. It is therefore preliminary to the second study in which an attempt is made to conceptualize and interpret the differences between the schemes.