What is the name of the appraisal plan that relies on a manager's narrative report of employee performance?

The appraisal plan that relies on a manager's narrative report of employee performance is known as the essay method. This method involves the manager providing a written description of an employee's performance, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. The narrative format allows for detailed feedback which can capture nuances of performance that more structured methods may miss.

By using the essay method, managers can express their observations and insights in a comprehensive way, providing valuable qualitative feedback. This can lead to a better understanding of an employee’s contributions and specific areas where they might need support or development.

Other appraisal methods, such as rating scales or graphic rating methods, typically focus on quantifying performance through specific criteria and categories, rather than providing a narrative perspective. Similarly, 360-degree feedback incorporates perspectives from various stakeholders and may not rely on a single manager's narrative. Hence, the essay method stands out as a distinct approach in performance appraisals.