Which performance evaluation method involves writing about specific incidents?

The performance evaluation method that involves writing about specific incidents is the critical incident report. This approach is designed to capture instances of particularly effective or ineffective performance, providing rich, qualitative data that reflects a person's behavior in specific situations. By focusing on concrete examples, the critical incident report helps evaluators understand how an individual reacts to challenges, makes decisions, and interacts with others, which can be more informative than general assessments.

This method is particularly useful in identifying patterns of behavior over time and assessing competencies in a nuanced way. It encourages evaluators to reflect on real situations rather than abstract qualities, leading to actionable insights for improvement or recognition.

In contrast, summative assessments typically provide an overall evaluation of performance at the end of a period without the detail of specific incidents. Behavior rating scales use predetermined criteria to rate performance, which may lack the context that specific incidents provide. Employee feedback forms gather general feedback, often with less emphasis on specific examples compared to the focused insights that a critical incident report offers.