Employee Performance Management (EPM) System

About the Program

Category: Personnel Management, Employment and Training (Best in Category)

Year: 2011

Johnson County, Kansas implemented a comprehensive Employee Performance Management (EPM) system across all departments and agencies that align with the county’s values. The system adopted defined behavioral competencies that apply to all employees, a consistent rating scale, and a standardized appraisal format. While the structure of the appraisal tool is consistent Countywide, there are elements that are tailored within each department / agency to reflect the uniqueness of each employee’s job. The system provides consistency while still offering flexibility. The EPM system was developed based on input from employees regarding what they viewed as the most important for effective performance and evaluation. The system, which takes advantage of technology by using an automated process, includes mechanisms for ongoing employee involvement. In addition, a focal point review schedule has been adopted where all employees receive performance reviews at a set time during the year, a change from the previous anniversary date review schedule. An automated tool and the shift to a focal point review schedule created the ability to more effectively monitor that reviews are completed in a timely manner and enable funds set aside for merit increases to be effectively distributed. All these elements combined to create a system and a tool that is easy for employees to use and understand while still promoting consistency in rating employee performance.