I have referred previously to a number of Bowland Solutions' clients starting to introduce  competency assessments as part of their performance appraisal form. To support this trend we are currently looking to integrate a 360 degree view within our performance review software.

That allows the individual - or their manager - to gain a wider view of performance as part of the employee performance review.

I would be cautious though in describing this as a true 360 degree appraisal as its purpose is much narrower than that sort of feedback can deliver.  It does though offer a useful method of improving the effectiveness of the review.

Brendan