Which performance appraisal method rates employees according to defined factors?

• A. 360-Degree Feedback Evaluation Method
• B. Rating Scales Method
• C. Critical Incident Method
• D. Work Standards Method

Answer: (B)

Rating employees against predefined factors is the essence of the Rating Scales Method. In this approach, you define specific performance dimensions—such as quality of work, volume of work, reliability, teamwork—and rate an employee on a numeric scale for each factor. By scoring against the same factors and scales, you get a structured, comparable overall rating that highlights strengths and development needs.

This differs from other methods. The 360-Degree Feedback gathers input from multiple sources (peers, subordinates, superiors) and emphasizes a broader perspective rather than a single evaluator’s factor-based score. The Critical Incident Method focuses on narrative records of particular positive or negative behaviors rather than a standardized factor-based rating. The Work Standards Method assesses performance against predefined output standards or benchmarks, concentrating on meeting those standards rather than rating multiple defined factors.