The performance management system (PEPDS) was developed as a result of a joint labor management initiative.  The PEP (Performance Evaluation and Promotion) team reviewed the previous evaluation system and made recommendations for changes.  The team included professional staff, a labor representative, and a management representative.   A consultant from the Cornell School of Industrial and Labor Relations provided leadership for the team.  The project sponsors were the Vice Presidents Council (VPC) and the United University Professions (UUP) Executive Board.

The PEP team gathered data about the previous system by surveying professional staff and managers.  They also explored best practices in the field of performance management and surveyed a number of colleges and businesses to see what was being done in other organizations.  As a result of this research the team concluded that rather than modify the existing system, a new system should be developed.  This new system would need to make performance expectations clear, encourage and support professional development, provide specific feedback, and encourage dialogue between employees and supervisors.  The team also felt it was important that the system provide opportunities for professional development and preparation for promotion and salary increase.  The final recommendations of the PEP team were submitted to the sponsors (VPC and UUP Executive Board) and the current system reflects recommendations of the team and modifications suggested by the sponsors.

Overview

The system consists of three parts:  the performance program and job description, mid-year discussion (optional), and end-of-year evaluation.  The performance program includes individual goals, professional development goals, and college community service activities.  The optional mid-year discussion is an opportunity for the employee to receive feedback mid-way in the evaluation cycle and to review progress on the goals set in the performance program.  The end-of-year evaluation is the final review of goal attainment and rating of overall performance for the year.