Assessing the Performance Appraisal System of Local Government Services in the Cape Coast Metropolis

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to evaluate the performance appraisal system Local Government Services in the Cape Coast Metropolis. The study employed a qualitative and case study design to address three research objectives that guided the study. The procedural justice theory proposed informed the study. Both HR managers and junior staffs of the Local Government Services in the Cape Coast Metropolis totaling seventeen (17) were sampled purposively for the study. A semi structured interview guide was developed to elicit data from the study participants. The qualitative data analysis techniques involved thematising lived experiences, opinions, perceptions and beliefs of participants on the performance appraisal system. In addressing the stipulated objectives thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Findings indicate that performance appraisal system of Local Government Services in the Cape Coast Metropolis was found as effective by human resource managers whiles the junior staff perceived otherwise. Again, the performance appraisal process was besieged with numerous challenges. This revelations lead to the conclusion that performance appraisal at the Local Government Services in the Cape Coast Metropolis is not effective because it lacked reciprocity in terms of feedback and communication. The study therefore recommends that effective feedback should be instituted by Government Services in the Cape Coast Metropolis to overcome their weaknesses of employees are with regards to their performance. The study further recommends that management should continually have a dialogue with employees on their performance