Numbers of ratings in 360 degree appraisals

Monday, October 13, 2008 by Brendan Walsh

I recently wrote on the rating scales in 360 degree feedback . One recent, interesting development we have had with a client is the number of ratings affecting the distribution of scores.

The client uses a 7 point rating scale. One effect of a 7 point rather than 5 point scale is to bunch the scoring together. So, the difference between rating points is much smaller. This is not necessarily an issue but it is something to consider up front (we are changing our standard process as we speak).

One solution to this is to score from -3 to +3 - a suggestion from the client concerned. I'm not necessarily advocating this approach and we have a general concern at Bowland Solutions around using averages/scores anyway. But, this does solve this problem if you need it solving!

Brendan

Comments for Numbers of ratings in 360 degree appraisals

Friday, October 17, 2008 by reactive360:: -3 to +3 is a scoring scale that when used can be dangerous as the emphasis on the minus numbers becomes linked with underperforming and negativity where as the standard 0+ scales tend to be more positive, interesting discussion though! www.reactive360.com
Monday, October 27, 2008 by Brendan:: Yup - certainly one to be used with care. We know from past work with this client that noone "averages" below 0 ... and the scoring isn't shown on the rating scale so the negativity is avoided. But a welcome cautionary note, thanks.