A 360 degree feedback system captures feedback about an individual from a range of people including his or her line manager, colleagues and direct reports. It’s a useful way of evaluating performance, but it’s not necessarily the best way.
It does provide a confidential and anonymous platform through which employees can communicate honestly and without reserve. If introduced professionally, 360 degree appraisals tend to have a high level of employee acceptance and involvement; they’re acknowledged to be more objective than a standard 180 process. By helping peers to understand each others' work and by airing grievances in a non-threatening manner, 360 feedback can improve communication within the organisation. This ultimately leads to improved teamwork and higher performance.
However, if not introduced professionally, employees may feel threatened by a 360 process. Ideally, employees should know that the 360 data will not be used for setting pay levels, bonuses or be linked in any way to disciplinary action. 360 isn’t enough on its own – it should be an enhancement to a more comprehensive performance management process which includes objective setting and learning and development. Respondents may focus naturally on weaknesses and ignore strengths. This may leave employees discouraged or de-motivated as a result. It can be time consuming and labour-intensive to implement if not tailored to needs to beforehand.
So having considered the pros and cons, you’ve decided to implement a 360 degree feedback system. How do you find the right supplier?
There’s now a vast array of software companies who offer 360 survey tools; they all profess to offer a secure web based platform, fully automated service, and a customizable platform which allows you to use your own questions, customize your reports and brand the whole process to your own organisation. But is this enough?
With so much competition you should also look for; a transparent pricing structure; ensure there are no hidden costs involved. Ask for a free trial and then do a dummy run using one of your own employees. During this time, assess the platform’s interface, its user friendliness and the whole journey which your employees will take. Look for a supplier who can offer free telephone help, questionnaire development guides and has an extensive questionnaire template database. Lastly, check out their client list. Have they worked for other organisations of a similar size and in the same area of business as you?
