ABSTRACT
Out of the fourteen organisations visited in a survey, five have appraisal schemes which are operating very well and seem likely to flourish, and five have schemes which are operating fairly well and may improve. In two organisations the original appraisal schemes have failed to fulfil expectations and require drastic modification; two organisations have not yet introduced systematic appraisal schemes. The experience of these organisations naturally varied somewhat, according to their individual circumstances, but a number of conditions for successful introduction of an appraisal scheme stand out clearly. Equally important, however, is careful planning and preparation, so that the climate of opinion among both management and staff becomes favourable and receptive to the scheme. The appraisal scheme should not be linked too closely with merit ratings for pay purposes. The danger is very real that an appraisal system may become ossified. There is need for constant monitoring, with a view to identifying faults and introducing progressive improvements.
