The Five-Level System: Performance Planning

Approximately four weeks before the start of the appraisal period, rating officials (supervisors) and employees should begin developing written performance plans for the next appraisal period. The process should involve both the supervisor and the employee. Performance plans must be recorded on the CD-430, Performance Management Record. Performance plans must be completed and signed by the rating official, approving official, and employee within 60 days of the beginning of the appraisal period.

Each employee's performance plan must contain at least 3, but no more than 5 critical elements. A critical element is a work assignment, responsibility, or result to be achieved that is of such importance that unacceptable performance in that element would result in a determination that the employee's overall performance is Level 1.

Each critical element must also be linked to at least one DOC strategic goal, one NOAA goal, and one SES goal (using the SES plan from chain of command).

Finally, each critical element must have associated supplemental standards (also known as credible measures) which specify the quality, quantity, and cost effectiveness expectations for a Level 3 performer.

Performance Planning Links

• FY 08 Performance Planning Memo
• Drafting Critical Elements
• Required Critical Elements
  • Customer Service - all employees

  Please be advised that the specific Customer Service element language ONLY applies to non-bargaining unit employees until labor relations obligations have been fulfilled. 

  • Leadership - all rating officials
  • Property
    • Property Accountability Officers
    • Property Management Officers
    • Property Custodians
• Drafting Supplemental Standards
• Sample 5-Level plans
  • NOAA Sample Plans
  • DOC Sample Plans

Page last edited: January 31, 2008