The perception of management and employees in the implementation of performance management in the department of public works and roads

Abstract

Employees could be satisfied and motivated to work if the practice of performance management is effectively implemented in organisations. The implementation of performance management in the Department of Public Works in Mafikeng has been a contentious issue due to the challenges arising from the assessment system. The purpose of this study was to investigate the current perceptions that management and employees have with regards the implementation of performance management in the North West Department of Public Works and Roads. The study employed a quantitative research approach framed within positivist paradigm using a survey questionnaire to obtain empirical data from selected management and employees in the Department of Public Works and Roads. The results indicate that both management and employees have negative perceptions towards the performance review system in the department and the Performance Management Development System (PMDS) is not taken seriously. However, the respondents show positive perceptions with regards the feedback they received from their manager and supervisor and this feedback helped them to improve their performance. However, a statistically analysis revealed that permanent employees perceive the workplace in a positive way and this also influences the ways in which they perceive the practice of performance management system. The study recommends the development of a better working relationship between employees and management regarding negative perception in the implementation of performance management.