§ 430.204 Agency performance appraisal system(s)

5 CFR 430.204(a)(a) Each agency as defined at section 4301(1) of title 5, United States Code, shall develop one or more performance appraisal systems for employees covered by this subpart.

5 CFR 430.204(b)(b) An agency appraisal system shall establish agencywide policies and parameters for the application and operation of performance appraisal within the agency for the employees covered by the system. At a minimum, an agency system shall—

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(1) Provide for—

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(i)(i) Establishing employee performance plans, including, but not limited to, critical elements and performance standards;

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(ii)(ii) Communicating performance plans to employees at the beginning of an appraisal period;

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(iii)(iii) Evaluating each employee during the appraisal period on the employee's elements and standards;

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(iv)(iv) Recognizing and rewarding employees whose performance so warrants;

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(v)(v) Assisting employees in improving unacceptable performance; and

5 CFR 430.204(b)(1)(vi)(vi) Reassigning, reducing in grade, or removing employees who continue to have unacceptable performance, but only after an opportunity to demonstrate acceptable performance.

5 CFR 430.204(b)(2)(2) Identify employees covered by the system;

5 CFR 430.204(b)(3)(3) Specify the flexibilities an agency program established under the system has for setting—

5 CFR 430.204(b)(3)(i)(i) The length of the appraisal period (as specified in § 430.206(a));

5 CFR 430.204(b)(3)(ii)(ii) The length of the minimum period (as specified in § 430.207(a));

5 CFR 430.204(b)(3)(iii)(iii) The number(s) of performance levels at which critical and non-critical elements may be appraised (as specified in § 430.206(b)(7) (i)(A) and (ii)(A)); and

5 CFR 430.204(b)(3)(iv)(iv) The pattern of summary levels that may be assigned in a rating of record (as specified in § 430.208(d));

5 CFR 430.204(b)(4)(4) Include, where applicable, criteria and procedures for establishing separate appraisal programs under an appraisal system; and

5 CFR 430.204(b)(5)(5) Require that an appraisal program shall conform to statute, the regulations of this chapter, and the requirements established by the appraisal system.

5 CFR 430.204(c)(c) Agencies are encouraged to involve employees in developing and implementing their system(s). When agencies involve employees, the method of involvement shall be in accordance with the law.