Evaluating dynamic performance: Effects of trend, mean, and variation of performance on performance ratings

• Main Author: REB, Jochen
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2005
• Subjects: Dynamic performance; Performance profile; Performance evaluation; Human Resources Management; Organizational Behavior and Theory
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/lkcsb_research/5365
• Institution: Singapore Management University

We examined the role of several characteristics of a dynamic performance profile in shaping performance ratings. In a laboratory experiment, we manipulated the performance trend (flat, upward, downward, Ushaped, and inverse U-shaped), performance mean (negative, zero, positive), and performance variation (small, large) within-subjects and display format between-subjects. Participants received information about the weekly performance over a 26-week period of different employees and evaluated their past performance. Results showed strong main effects on performance ratings of both performance mean and performance trend, in addition to several interactions. The results are discussed in terms of the role of salient Gestalt characteristics in evaluating dynamic performance as well as the normative implications of such influences.