The point of 360 surveys is to help you improve (360s should not be used for performance appraisal).

FORBES: How to Get the Most out of your 360 Survey Feedback

To fix his imperfections, Schwann's Mr. Sherwin went through a rigorous performance appraisal known as "360-degree feedback" that included customers' reaction.

WSJ: Your Executive Career - What's in Your Blind Spot?

Paul Falcone, a human resources executive in Los Angeles and author of 2600 Phrases for Effective Performance Reviews and The Performance Appraisal Tool Kit, has more concrete advice to offer.

FORBES: How To Ace Your Performance Review

Kirner, examined 17 firms without formal performance appraisal systems.

WSJ: Performance Reviews Lose Steam

For example, our performance appraisal process needs redesign.

WHITEHOUSE: "Doing What Works" Transcript

The all-above-average performance-appraisal process may be the most costly and damaging.

WSJ: Paul Light: The Sequester Is an Overhaul Opportunity

The NAHT says that the government's plan to introduce an appraisal and performance-related pay in September 1999 is "unrealistic" and has called for the changes to be postponed until September 2000.

BBC: Ballot demanded for teachers' performance pay