Perceptions of top management on performance appraisal at the Kenya Ports Authority

Abstract

The performance appraisal system of any organization is a vital component of the health of the whole business cycle. The maritime industry and KPA in particular is not an exception to this view. This industry offers employment both directly and indirectly to the east and central Africa population. The increasing significance of performance appraisal processes and performance management systems is of fundamental importance to the performance of any organization. Thus what gets measured gets done. The overall objective of the study was to determine the perceptions of top management on performance appraisal at KPA. This study was guided by various theoretical reviews. This was a case study research. The study was conducted through a census of top management at the KPA. The study used primary data which was collected using questionnaires and interview guide. Descriptive analysis was used to analyse quantitative data while content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The study established that proper use of appraisal systems is of great value to the business organisation. The study also established that tangible targets and linkage of targets to direct reward motivates staff to perform tasks efficiently. KPA should adopt performance management systems. The study identified balanced score card as the most popular tool for appraisal process. The other recommendation by the interviewees are the combination of appraisal tools such as combining balanced scorecard and 360 degrees feed back, combining rating scale and balanced score card, combining balanced score card and performance prism