The university has carried out a review of the Appraisal and Development Conversation (ADC) process, which was launched in August 2019.

The aim of the review is to ensure that the ADC approach is effectively engaging everyone in the achievement of the University Strategy. ADCs intend to facilitate a safe and trusted space for open dialogue about performance, achievements, development, and aspirations.

The ADCs are currently supported by a balanced framework approach. This was designed to underpin discussions between the appraisee and appraiser about how the appraisee’s personal objectives contribute to the wider areas of focus of the Faculty or Professional Service Department.

The balanced framework model is now outdated and has been superseded by the university’s Strategic Framework. The University Strategy drives all university activity and sets out what it wants to achieve. The university’s Strategic Delivery Plans (SDPs) and Enabling Plans outline how the values, goals, enablers, and cross-cutting issues in the Strategy are realised.

Each (SDP) and Enabling Plan (previously functional delivery and influencing plans) sets out the priorities for the thematic areas, and is supported by detailed business planning identified in the operational delivery plans, and measured by a set of KPIs.

We have therefore updated the ADC process and guidelines, so they are aligned with the university’s Strategic Framework. We have removed the balanced framework approach and instead are encouraging the use of Faculty/Professional Service Department operational delivery plans in directing and setting individual objectives.

We have also adjusted the ADC cycle to better align with the cycle of business planning across the university. Whilst ADCs are based on a conversational framework which encourages regular conversations during the year, the annual ADC will now take place between May and September.

Later in April we will share updated ADC Guidelines and FAQs, as well as updated ADC webpages and learning resources to support both appraisers and appraisees with good quality ADC conversations.