Challenges managers face in the application of performance appraisal results in human resource management: a case study of the university of nairobi

Abstract

The public sector in most countries is going through profound restructuring in the face of environmental constraints that force the sector to undertake reforms to be efficient and effective. In this respect, one of the most popular tools used in the contemporary reform programme is Performance Contracts which have emphasized application of performance appraisal systems as a requirement of PC. However, since appraisal is a controversial management practice anywhere, the successful institutionalization of such a system faces numerous challenges and obstacles. The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges Managers face in the application of Performance Appraisal results at the University of Nairobi. The study revealed that the managers face numerous challenges in the application of performance appraisal results, which include lack of management support, lack of proper understanding of the Performance Appraisal Instrument by both the appraisers and those to be appraised among others. Furthermore, having supportive leaders at the organizational level, provision of valuable rewards and extensive training were also considered important prerequisites that are necessary for creating a professional public institution. These challenges have resulted in unfavourable climate for fruitful application of performance appraisal results. The study further established that there is lack of initiative to implement results of the appraisal, making the exercise less effective as a Performance management tool. It was also established that both employees and their appraisers lack proper understanding of what PA really entails thus resulting in their failure to embrace PA as a Performance Management tool. To address these, there is need to sensitize all cadre of staff at the University of Nairobi on the importance of PA as a performance management tool. The sensitization can be through training, workshops, seminars and even departmental meetings. The University of Nairobi management should borrow a leaf from the private sector on how to manage the PA exercise, giving it the seriousness that it deserved. This will ensure that the exercise have a well laid down procedure and a time frame for all the processes that need to be put in place in order to have an effective performance Management tool.