What term describes the process that is continuous, while an appraisal occurs at a specific time?

The term "performance management" describes the continuous process of identifying, measuring, and developing the performance of individuals and teams, while appraisals are specific evaluations that occur at designated times, often annually or semi-annually. Performance management encompasses a range of activities—including setting objectives, monitoring performance, providing ongoing feedback, and facilitating employee development. This holistic approach allows organizations to foster a culture of improvement and support employee growth over time.

In contrast, an appraisal serves as a formal review that typically summarizes performance over a specified period, focusing on outcomes achieved during that timeframe. The feedback loop, while related to performance management, specifically refers to the mechanism through which feedback is provided and utilized; it is not a separate ongoing process but rather part of the overall performance management system. Performance assessment, similarly, involves evaluating performance but does not capture the continuous nature of performance management. Thus, performance management is the correct term that reflects ongoing development and support in the workplace.