Investigation of Support Staff's Perceptions of Performance Appraisal Effectiveness at the University of Huddersfield

The research was undertaken at the University of Huddersfield with support staff to ascertain perceptions about the appraisal process with regard to whether it was an effective, worthwhile tool and how they felt they engaged with the process and why. According to much research the appraisal process is renowned as an unsatisfactory process for managers and staff alike and understanding why this is may help consider a new approach. Staff were invited to complete an online survey and several were then interviewed more in depth about their feelings and experiences of the system. The investigation found that staff generally welcome some form of appraisal but that the current process was essentially out-dated and the process and paperwork needed revamping. In addition to this training was identified as a major flaw in the process as training was limited and not compulsory. Engagement with the process was lacking in many areas as a result of perceived unfairness or with poor working relationships with managers.