A Critical Review of Performance Appraisal At the Federal Level: the Experience of the Phs

Abstract

The implementation of the Civil Service Reform Act in the U. S. Public Health Service was ac complished in a timely mannner. However, there were many problems, specifically with the per formance appraisal aspects. These problems arose not only through interpretation of the Act but through frequently changing requirements and one major flaw - making basic salary dependent upon performance appraisal. This requirement led to questions of equity on ratings, work plans, and amount of merit pay. In addition to these disincentives, implementation resulted in massive paperwork and inflexibility.