Traditionally, performance appraisal has been limited to a feedback process between employees and supervisors. However, with the increased focus on teamwork, employee development, and customer service, some agencies have shifted to employee feedback from a full circle of sources. The circle of feedback sources consists of supervisors, peers, subordinates, customers, and oneself. This multiple$-$input approach to performance feedback is sometimes called $"360-$degree assessment" to connote that full circle.

The goal of this passage is to explain...