# Performance Management Track and enhance employee performance with tools for setting goals, conducting reviews, and facilitating feedback. This module promotes a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. # Chapter 1: Introduction to Performance Management In today’s fast-paced business environment, managing employee performance is not just an HR task, it’s a critical driver of organisational success. This chapter introduces the **Performance Management** module and explores its purpose, features, and impact on employee engagement and productivity. You’ll gain an understanding of how this tool aligns individual and team objectives with broader organisational goals, while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. By the end of this chapter, you’ll appreciate why performance management is a vital component of effective talent management and how the SignifyHR platform equips you to implement it seamlessly. # Overview of Performance Management ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Performance management is essential for cultivating a high-performing workforce. It is a structured process that aligns individual contributions with the company's goals, while also encouraging **continuous improvement** and **accountability**. This chapter offers a broad overview of performance management, detailing its purpose, key components, and significance in promoting both employee development and business success. ![PM Dashboard.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-01/JYRLMNgedxfVwSUK-pm-dashboard.png) At its core, performance management involves setting clear **expectations**, tracking **progress**, and providing **feedback** to employees. This process includes multiple stages, starting from setting objectives and defining competencies, to conducting regular check-ins and identifying opportunities for growth. It is a dynamic, ongoing process that enhances engagement and productivity. Throughout this chapter, you will explore the foundational elements of performance management and understand how it integrates into the broader HR framework. You will also learn about the mutual **benefits** of this process, as it helps employees reach their potential while providing value to the company. By the end of this chapter, you will have a clearer understanding of performance management and its critical role in modern HR practices. This knowledge will provide a strong foundation for exploring subsequent chapters, which will offer more detailed guidance on implementation and best practices. ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Purpose of the Module ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)In a dynamic and competitive business environment, companies must ensure that employees perform at their best while contributing to broader strategic goals. The **Performance Management** module serves as a structured framework designed to enhance employee performance, align individual contributions with the company's objectives, and create a culture of continuous improvement. ![PM Purpose.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/jbylxKNbRJJikgwC-pm-purpose.png) Effective performance management is not just about evaluating past performance – it is a proactive approach to **setting expectations, developing skills, and fostering engagement**. Some benefits include: - - - Improving productivity - Ensuring accountability - Identifying gaps in training - Building a culture of continuous feedback This module enables managers and employees to have open discussions about goals, competencies, and career development, ensuring that every team member understands their role in achieving success. Furthermore, it establishes clear performance metrics, helping companies **identify high performers, address skill gaps, and drive productivity improvements**. By leveraging the **Performance Management** module, companies can create a structured, transparent, and fair approach to managing talent. This module is instrumental in building a high-performance culture where employees feel valued, motivated, and supported in their professional journeys. The following sections will explore its purpose in greater detail, including how it aligns with business goals, enhances employee engagement, and contributes to the growth of the company. ### Key Components - **Goal setting and alignment with organisational objectives** ensure that employees understand their responsibilities and how their contributions support broader business strategies. - **Regular performance reviews and feedback cycles** allow employees to recognise their strengths, identify areas for improvement, and adjust their approach to meet expectations. - **Metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs)** are quantitative and qualitative measures to help assess employee performance against predefined standards, providing a data-driven approach to decision-making. - **Training, development, and career progression plans** play a crucial role in employee retention and long-term organisational growth. ### Aligning Goals and Objectives For a company to achieve sustainable success, employees must understand how their roles contribute to broader business objectives. The **Performance Management** module bridges the gap between **personal career aspirations** and **strategic goals**, ensuring that employees focus on outcomes that drive growth. By defining expectations, tracking progress, and providing continuous feedback, it creates a structured approach that aligns individual development with company priorities. When employees see the direct impact of their contributions, they become more **engaged**, **motivated**, and **productive**. A well-structured performance management system translates high-level business strategies into actionable, measurable objectives at every level. This clarity helps employees understand their responsibilities and see a clear path for growth within the company. Aligning individual and company goals benefits both employees and the business. Employees gain direction, purpose, and development opportunities, while the company fosters a culture of **accountability**, **efficiency**, and **continuous improvement**. By implementing performance management effectively, businesses can create an environment where individual success and company objectives align seamlessly. ![Performance Management's benefits for employee and company](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/aA8vAfHDZO0cGYaI-pm-benefits-for-employee-and-company.png) ### Employee Engagement and Organisational Success Engaged employees drive company success. When they receive regular **feedback** and **recognition**, they feel valued and remain committed to their roles. The **Performance Management** module ensures employees have clear expectations, structured support, and opportunities for continuous development. More than just motivation, effective performance management helps managers detect and address disengagement before it affects productivity. It promotes open dialogue, allowing employees to share concerns and receive guidance. This proactive approach **reduces turnover**, **strengthens job satisfaction**, and cultivates a **supportive work environment**. By integrating modules such as [**Learning Management**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/learning-management "Learning Management") and [**Career and Succession Planning**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/career-and-succession-planning "Career and Succession Planning") into the **Performance Management** module, companies foster a culture of **growth**. Employees who see clear advancement opportunities are more likely to stay engaged and contribute meaningfully. Empowering individuals through goal-setting and skill development not only enhances their careers but also drives business success. ![Signify - Develop Modules](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/qiishYS08u7rDIwN-signify-develop-modules.png)
### Performance Management and Technology Technology streamlines performance management by automating reviews, tracking progress, and providing real-time feedback. Platforms like **SignifyHR** integrate goal setting, performance tracking, and analytics to improve decision-making. Centralised records and data-driven insights help identify top performers and address skill gaps. Digital tools also support continuous learning by linking training and career development to performance goals. By leveraging technology, organisations create a more efficient, transparent system that enhances employee growth while aligning talent strategies with business objectives.
![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Key Features of the Module ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) The **Performance Management** module is designed to streamline and enhance the performance review process, making it more intuitive, transparent, and effective. With a range of **powerful features**, this module simplifies performance tracking, fosters meaningful feedback, and ensures alignment with the company's goals. Our system integrates automation, flexibility, and data-driven insights, thereby removing the complexity often associated with performance management. These features not only set the **Performance Management** module apart but also add significant value by creating a **structured, user-friendly experience** that supports employees and managers in collaboratively working towards improvement. ![PM Key Features.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/zLeA6DaNtdzui9QC-pm-key-features.png)
Documentation and Compliance ##### Terminology The **Performance Management** module allows for **customisation of terminology**, ensuring that system labels, messages, and descriptions align with the company's unique performance management framework. ##### Audit Log of Transactions The system keeps an **audit log** that records all transactions and modifications made to a **performance agreement**, ensuring transparency, accountability, and traceability throughout the performance management process. ##### Documents Upload During the appraisal process, users can **upload multiple documents** per **KPI** to support performance evaluations. A summary of all uploaded documents is easily accessible on the dashboard. ##### Print Agreements Performance agreements can easily be printed in **PDF** format. ![PM Print performance agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/6DK8EtPn6Ouvtouq-pm-print-performance-agreement.png)
Workflow and Automation ##### Templates Performance agreements can be stored in a **template library**, allowing users to select a pre-populated template when creating a new agreement. This ensures that objectives are automatically copied to the individual's agreement, streamlining the setup process. ##### Notifications The system automatically notifies employees and managers via email when objectives are submitted, check-ins are conducted, or ratings are completed. Additionally, **automated reminder emails** can be sent before phase end dates to ensure timely completion. ![PM Notifications.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/0e8pxcUSgPQcUwO4-pm-notifications.png) ##### Dashboard The **Performance Management** dashboard allows employees to select the performance year and managers to view their own agreements or those of their direct reports. A collapsible **timeline section** outlines key review phases, while colour-coded indicators clearly display progress and the status of each phase. ![PM Dashboard (Employee).png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/85r3zK2AXPRkKI6V-pm-dashboard-employee.png)
Review, Feedback, and Planning ##### Check-ins The **check-ins** functionality allows managers and employees to assess progress before the **rating phase** begins, providing an opportunity to confirm whether the employee is on track and address any potential challenges in advance. ##### Review Surveys Review surveys can be linked to the **review setup**, where applicable, to gather comprehensive feedback from multiple sources, such as in a **360-degree review** process. ##### Action Plan An optional **Action Plan** section can be enabled to monitor training and other activities throughout the **performance management** process, with actions recorded for each **KPI**. This section includes key details such as required actions, implementation methods, training needs, responsible persons, due dates, progress tracking, and comments from both the employee and manager. ![PM Action plan example.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/4dy21Py2EkenFy8d-pm-action-plan-example.png)
Performance Evaluation and Ratings ##### Ratings Beyond KPA-level The **Performance Management** module allows for ratings beyond **Key Performance Areas (KPAs)**, extending to **Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)**, **stretch targets**, **company values**, and **leadership behaviours**. Each section allows for structured input, including rating scales, measures, weights, and manager and employee comments, ensuring a comprehensive and customisable evaluation process. Additionally, **perspectives** can be activated to categorise KPAs, following the Balanced Scorecard approach. ![PM Performance agreement sections.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/9UHdcY5sRlKe6Wys-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ##### Customisable Rating Scales The **customisable rating scales** allow companies to define their own scoring criteria, ensuring alignment with internal performance measurement standards and providing flexibility in evaluating employee achievements across different performance areas. ##### Calibration The **calibration** functionality promotes fairness and consistency in performance evaluations by allowing administrators to adjust scores at the **review period**, **review survey**, and overall **final score** levels. Administrators can export scores, make necessary calibrations with justifications, and then re-import the adjusted scores into the system. Employees can view their calibrated scores on the Performance Management dashboard, with the option to hover over the score to see the original rating before calibration. ![PM Review Items.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/2wBZvBpGfH8oxa8s-pm-review-items.png) ##### Interpolation The **interpolation functionality** allows actual values to be mapped to a **rating scale**, ensuring a more precise and automated evaluation process. During the **rating phase**, users enter actual values, which are then automatically converted into ratings based on predefined mappings, eliminating the need for manual rating selection. This functionality can be enabled at the **KPI level** and is available in the **objective setting phase** when creating **templates, copying agreements, or setting up blank agreements**, providing flexibility in performance assessments. ![PM Interpolation settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/cGJc00TU4OGFXGae-pm-interpolation-settings.png)
![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Aligning Performance Management with Employee Development ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) The **Performance** **Management** module plays a crucial role in the **Develop** phase of the employee lifecycle. Integrated with other key modules such as [**Learning Management**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/learning-management "Learning Management"), [**Event Management**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/event-scheduling "Event Management"), and [**Personal Development Plan**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/personal-development-plan-AdY "Personal Development Plan"), this module ensures that employees are continuously supported, guided, and evaluated to enhance their professional growth.
![Signify - Develop Modules.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/yPlLsuAiSHZaypzi-signify-develop-modules.png)
Remember, **Performance Management** is just one part of a broader employee lifecycle. - In the **Attract** phase, modules like [**Recruitment**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/recruitment-dqa "Recruitment"), [**Job Profiling and** **Competency Analyser**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/job-profiling-and-competency-analyser "Job Profiling and Competency Analyser"), and [**Recruitment** ](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/recruitment-requisition "Recruitment Requisition")**[Requisition](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/recruitment-requisition "Recruitment Requisition")** ensure that the right talent is identified and matched to organisational needs. - The **Manage** phase includes **Onboarding and Offboarding**, [**People Management**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/people-management-d8c "People Management"), [**Employee Self-Service**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/people-management-d8c/page/update-a-persons-profile "Update a Person's Profile"), [**Leave Management**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/leave-management-UmH "Leave Management"), [**Salary Review**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/salary-review "Salary Review"), and **Payroll (3rd Party)**, all of which contribute to efficient workforce administration. - Finally, the **Retain** phase focuses on long-term engagement through [**Reward and Recognition**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/people-management-d8c/page/give-and-receive-kudos "Give and Receive Kudos") and [**Career and Succession Planning**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/career-and-succession-planning "Career and Succession Planning"). By integrating these modules, organisations can create a seamless and strategic approach to talent management, ensuring employees are supported at every stage of their journey. ![Signify Modules.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/G7FuD0MdVyq1rFzN-signify-modules.png) ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Glossary ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) ##### Action Plan An action plan in a performance evaluation outlines specific steps an [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) needs to take to improve their performance, develop new skills, or achieve set goals. It includes clear [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp), timelines, measurable outcomes, and any required support or resources. The plan is typically created collaboratively between the [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) and their [manager](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc), ensuring alignment with organisational expectations and professional growth. Regular [check-ins](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0) and progress reviews help track improvements and adjust the plan as needed. ##### Check-In A check-in is a functionality that enables [managers](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc) to conduct regular progress reviews on an [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used)’s [performance agreement](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-a-performance-agreem) [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp) between formal [review periods](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-review-period). It allows [managers](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc) to provide direction, offer guidance, and keep [employees](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) focused on their [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp). Additionally, check-ins facilitate [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) feedback on the support and guidance received, fostering continuous communication and alignment. ##### Company Values and Behaviours Company values and behaviours define the expected conduct within an organisation. By identifying and explicitly communicating these values and behaviours, companies shape their culture, establish a moral compass for [employees](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used), and create a foundation for consistent decision-making. They also serve as guidelines for internal processes and performance measurement. [Employees](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) are assessed against these values as part of their performance management process, and they automatically form part of each [employee’s](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) [performance agreement](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-a-performance-agreem). ##### Employee, User, Learner, or Person These terms are used interchangeably within the system to refer to individuals interacting with it. The term "person" or "user" generally refers to those engaging with the system in a non-administrative or non-managerial capacity. If the context is related to **Learning Management**, "learner" is preferred. In a manager-subordinate environment, such as **Performance Management**, "employee" is typically used. The appropriate term depends on the specific module and its functionality. ##### Key Competencies Key competencies refer to the essential skills, abilities, and attributes required for success in a specific job or organisation. These competencies are often used in the rating process to assess [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) performance. Within the system, competencies can be defined for each job and made available in the **Performance Management** module. ##### Key Performance Area (KPA) Key Performance Areas are the specific business areas for which an individual is responsible, such as process improvement, safety and health, and security. Each KPA is further defined by one or more [Key Performance Indicators (KPI)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-key-performance-indi), which measure performance within that area. KPA weights within a [Perspective](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/Perspectives%20https:/signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-perspectives%2C-also-k%20%20%20Perspectives,%20also%20known%20as%20pillars,%20are%20categories%20used%20to%20group%20Key%20Performance%20Areas%20(KPAs)%20and%20are%20derived%20from%20the%20Balanced%20Scorecard%20approach%20to%20performance%20management.%20Common%20examples%20include%20the%20Financial%20Perspective,%20Customer%20Perspective,%20Internal%20Process%20Perspective,%20and%20Learning%20and%20Growth%20Perspective.%20Each%20perspective%20provides%20a%20structured%20way%20to%20evaluate%20performance%20across%20different%20business%20areas.%20Note%20that%20perspective%20weights%20within%20a%20section%20must%20always%20total%20100%.) must always total 100%. For further details, refer to [Key Performance Indicator (KPI)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-key-performance-indi). ##### Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Key Performance Indicators are measurable values that assess progress towards strategic goals or [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp). An effective KPI is well-defined, quantifiable, and essential for achieving specific targets. KPI weights within a [Key Performance Area (KPA)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-1) must always total 100%. ##### Leadership Behaviours Leadership behaviours are performance [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp) applicable only to [employees](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) in leadership positions, where they have direct reports. If an [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) is not a [manager](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc), this section will be unavailable, and its weight will be redistributed proportionally among the remaining sections. ##### Manager, Performance Manager, or Line Manager A manager, in the context of the system, is an individual with direct reports. Organisationally, this role may be referred to as a line manager. Within the **Performance Management** module, a manager is known as a performance manager, while in the **Learning Management** module, the role may be identified as a training manager. Depending on the organisation, these roles may be held by the same person or different individuals. To determine who fulfils each role, refer to an [employee's](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) reporting lines. The terms manager, performance manager, and line manager are used interchangeably. ##### Objective An objective is a specific goal that an [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) is expected to achieve. In Signify, the term "objective" encompasses various performance elements, including a [Key Performance Area's (KPA)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-1) [Key Performance Indicator (KPI)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-key-performance-indi), a [Stretch Target's KPI](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-this-section-can-be-), a [Company Value](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-company-values-and-b), a [Leadership Behaviour](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-leadership-behaviour-1), and a [Key Competency](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-key-competencies-ref). These objectives define performance expectations for an [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) over a given [performance year](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/Performance%20Year%20https:/signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-2%20%20%20A%20performance%20year,%20also%20known%20as%20a%20performance%20cycle,%20typically%20spans%2012%20months.%20It%20may%20align%20with%20the%20calendar%20year%20(January%20to%20December)%20or%20follow%20a%20different%20schedule,%20such%20as%20the%20financial%20year%20(March%20to%20February%20of%20the%20following%20year).%20Organisations%20often%20determine%20their%20performance%20cycle%20based%20on%20factors%20such%20as%20salary%20review%20periods%20and%20business%20planning%20needs.) and serve as the basis for assessment and measurement. ##### People Group A people group is a defined selection of individuals based on specific criteria, such as their position in the organisational structure, reporting line, location, or other conditions. Individuals within a people group have access to certain system functionalities, including selected eLearning courses, events, or specific processes. ##### Performance Agreement A performance agreement consists of a person’s [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp), structured across one or more [review periods](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-review-period) (also called assessment periods). The agreement provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the person's performance, with [review periods](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-review-period) typically weighted to contribute to the final score. The performance agreement forms the foundation of performance evaluation and ensures a structured approach to measuring and developing [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) contributions. Additional components, such as a [360° evaluation](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-review-survey) or a [value survey](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-review-survey), can also be included alongside the [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp). ##### Performance Year A performance year, also known as a performance cycle, typically spans 12 months. It may align with the calendar year (January to December) or follow a different schedule, such as the financial year (March to February of the following year). Organisations often determine their performance cycle based on factors such as salary review periods and business planning needs. ##### Perspectives Perspectives, also known as pillars, are categories used to group [Key Performance Areas (KPAs)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-1) and are derived from the Balanced Scorecard approach to performance management. Common examples include the Financial Perspective, Customer Perspective, Internal Process Perspective, and Learning and Growth Perspective. Each perspective provides a structured way to evaluate performance across different business areas. Note that perspective weights within a section must always total 100%. ##### Rating / Rating Scale / Score A rating, rating scale, or score is used to assess an [employee’s](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) performance against agreed [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp). At the start of a [performance year](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/Performance%20Year%20https:/signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-2%20%20%20A%20performance%20year,%20also%20known%20as%20a%20performance%20cycle,%20typically%20spans%2012%20months.%20It%20may%20align%20with%20the%20calendar%20year%20(January%20to%20December)%20or%20follow%20a%20different%20schedule,%20such%20as%20the%20financial%20year%20(March%20to%20February%20of%20the%20following%20year).%20Organisations%20often%20determine%20their%20performance%20cycle%20based%20on%20factors%20such%20as%20salary%20review%20periods%20and%20business%20planning%20needs.), the [manager](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc) and [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) define these [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp). At the end of each review or assessment period, of which there may be one or more in a year, the [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) provides a personal rating for each [objective](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp). This rating is only visible to the [manager](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc) once submitted. Similarly, the [manager](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc) assigns a rating for each [objective](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp), which is not immediately visible to the [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used). These ratings contribute to the overall performance evaluation process. ##### Review Period A review period is a designated timeframe within a performance cycle during which an [employee's](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) [objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp), as outlined in their [performance agreement](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-a-performance-agreem), are assessed. There may be one or multiple review periods within a [performance year](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/Performance%20Year%20https:/signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-2%20%20%20A%20performance%20year,%20also%20known%20as%20a%20performance%20cycle,%20typically%20spans%2012%20months.%20It%20may%20align%20with%20the%20calendar%20year%20(January%20to%20December)%20or%20follow%20a%20different%20schedule,%20such%20as%20the%20financial%20year%20(March%20to%20February%20of%20the%20following%20year).%20Organisations%20often%20determine%20their%20performance%20cycle%20based%20on%20factors%20such%20as%20salary%20review%20periods%20and%20business%20planning%20needs.). The review period provides structured opportunities for evaluating progress and performance. ##### Review Setup A review setup defines the structure and rules governing the performance review process within an organisation. It determines how [performance agreements](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-a-performance-agreem) function, specifying rating permissions, the level of the [employee's](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) involvement, and approval workflows. For examples of different review setups, please see [Tips and Use Cases](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/chapter/chapter-5-tips-and-use-cases "Chapter 5: Tips and Use Cases"). ##### Review Survey A review survey in a performance evaluation is a structured questionnaire used to gather feedback on an [employee's](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) performance, skills, and contributions. It may include [ratings](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-rating-%2F-rating-scal), open-ended questions, and competency assessments from various sources, such as the [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used), their [manager](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-manager-%2F-performanc), peers, or subordinates. The survey helps identify strengths, areas for improvement, and overall job effectiveness. ##### Stretch Target A stretch target, also known as a stretch goal, is an [objective](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp) within the **Performance Management** module that functions similarly to a [Key Performance Area (KPA)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-%C2%A0-1) [objective](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-an-objective-is-a-sp) but is typically intended to drive additional growth or challenge an [employee](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) beyond standard expectations. This section can be customised using system aliases and renamed to suit organisational needs. For example, some companies have renamed this section to **Personal Development Plan** to incorporate training initiatives into [employees'](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) [performance agreements](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-a-performance-agreem). ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Chapter 2: Roles and Permissions Successful performance management relies on clearly defined roles and responsibilities. This chapter delves into the module's specific duties of administrators, managers, and employees. You’ll learn how each role contributes to the process, from configuring the system and tracking performance to setting goals and providing actionable feedback. Understanding these roles ensures a collaborative approach to performance management, where every user knows their contribution and how it ties into the system’s overall functionality. This chapter sets the foundation for effective teamwork and accountability by clarifying responsibilities. # Employee Roles ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Employees play a crucial role in setting **goals** and engaging in **performance reviews**, enabling them to effectively contribute to organisational goals while also driving their personal growth. Several factors contribute to a successful performance management process: - **Employees:** - - Open communication and mutual understanding between employees and managers are essential. - Active engagement includes: - - Setting clear objectives - Participating in regular check-ins - Self-assessing progress. - This approach leads to: - - A sense of ownership over professional development - The nurturing of a growth mindset - Alignment of personal goals with the company's priorities. ![PM - Responsibilities of Employees.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/dx4KDe8XGyZV1wxz-pm-responsibilities-of-employees.png) ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Managerial Roles ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Performance managers play an important role in **guiding** and **evaluating** their team. Managers are involved in setting objectives, providing feedback, and conducting performance reviews to drive employee growth and success. Several factors contribute to a successful performance management process: - **Managers:** - - Ongoing guidance and constructive feedback help employees stay on track. - Key responsibilities include: - - Providing timely feedback and support - Discussing self-ratings and providing balanced assessments - Adjusting objectives to align with business and individual needs. - This approach results in: - - A culture of continuous improvement - More accurate and actionable performance outcomes - Increased motivation and productivity. ![PM - Responsibilities of Managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/GlRtQllPSLktMAV8-pm-responsibilities-of-managers.png) ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Administrator Roles ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Effective administrators should **manage** and **support** performance **processes** effectively. An administrator has several responsibilities, from configuring system settings to drawing reports, thereby ensuring smooth and accurate performance management. Several factors contribute to a successful performance management process: - **Administrators:** - - System accuracy and smooth operation enable an effective performance management process. - Primary responsibilities include: - - Managing key data and performance cycles - Generating insightful reports for informed decision-making - Creating and maintaining agreement templates and review setups. - This support ensures: - - A structured and efficient performance management system - Clear alignment of reviews with organisational goals - A seamless experience for employees and managers. ![PM - Responsibilities of Administrators.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/j6kCq58XScjLig8O-pm-responsibilities-of-administrators.png) ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # How Performance Management Works ![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Effective performance management depends on collaboration among employees, managers, and administrators. When these roles work together harmoniously, it fosters an efficient and productive environment, supporting both individual and organisational growth. ![PM Cycle Overview SMALL.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-03/AQpTCZZ2YKzYpfdS-pm-cycle-overview-small.png) Below is an example of a performance cycle containing two review periods with check-ins enabled. Performance management requires collaboration and communication between administrators, managers, and employees. ![PM - Responsibilities of All.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-03/BllKB58oI1XjB6T2-pm-responsibilities-of-all.png) ![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Chapter 3: Setup and Configuration of Performance Management Setting up the **Performance Management** module is a crucial step that lays the groundwork for its effective use. In this chapter, we’ll walk you through the setup process, including pre-setup checklists and step-by-step configuration guidelines. Additionally, you’ll learn how to integrate this module with other systems, such as career and succession planning, competency analysis, or training. Whether you’re implementing this module for the first time or refining your setup, this chapter provides the tools and knowledge to ensure your implementation is smooth, efficient, and tailored to your organisation’s unique needs. # Prerequisites for this Module [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Some configuration and setup should be done before implementing the **Performance Management** module. - The [**People Management**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/people-management-d8c "People Management") module should be configured and set up. - Users should be able to **log in** to the system and update their passwords. - Complete and review the Performance Manager **reporting lines**. - Ensure administrators, managers, and employees have been provided with the appropriate **access rights**. - The email server should be set up if the default Signify email server is not used for **notifications**. This is demonstrated in the [**Ruleset Setup**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/ruleset-setup "Ruleset Setup") guide. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Performance Management Implementation Guide [Please click on this link to navigate to the implementation guide.](https://360.articulate.com/review/content/5c1663aa-b9dc-4978-b919-da06abc521ff/review "Performance Management Implementation Guide") # Settings Explained: Create or Edit Review Setup [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) A **review setup** defines the structure and rules governing the performance review process within an organisation. It determines how [performance agreements](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-a-performance-agreem) function, specifying rating permissions, the level of the [employee's](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2144#bkmrk-these-terms-are-used) involvement, and approval workflows. Each menu item related to review setups will be covered and includes the following: [![PM Review Setup - Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/7XEKUWIzqALiPx4e-pm-review-setup-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) In the beginning, only the **Details** menu item is accessible when creating a review setup. However, once you have adjusted and saved the review setup settings, the other menu items will become available. Let's examine each menu item more closely. #### **Details** The name, description, and configuration settings for the review setup can be edited on the **Details** screen. [![PM Create and Edit Review Setup Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/YJ9sEy1yXlj21dma-pm-create-and-edit-review-setup-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)
##### **GENERAL SETTINGS**
**SETTING NAME** **MODE** **DESCRIPTION**
**Dual participation – both the employee and the manager will participate electronically. If disabled, only the manager will participate electronically.** [![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Either the manager or the employee can create the performance agreement. The setting and rating of objectives requires the employee's participation. *Also activates the **Dual Participation** settings (see below).*
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)The manager can create and approve the performance agreement and rate the objectives without the employee's participation. The employee will be allowed to view the agreement. *Also deactivates the **Dual Participation** settings (see below).*
**Allow perspectives.** [![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Allows perspectives as the highest level of categorisation. KPAs will be added to perspectives when creating performance agreements.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Perspectives are not required for performance agreements, so KPAs can be added directly when creating performance agreements.
**Allow the manager to edit the review survey scores.**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)A manager will be able to update the review survey scores. Employees will be able to view the scores.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)The review survey scores cannot be edited. Employees and managers can see the scores.
**Show the timeline to the manager and employees on the Performance Management dashboard.** [![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)The timeline will display on the **Performance Management** dashboard.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)The timeline will not display on the **Performance Management** dashboard.
**The next review period can only start when the previous one has been completed.**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Forces the one review period to be completed before the next one can start. Thus, if you have two review periods, the first must be finalised before you can start the second.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Review periods can be started in any order if the phases are open.
**Hide scores and weights during the Ratings phase.**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Instead of displaying scores and weights, labels will be added to the rating scales.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)The scores and weights will be displayed during the Ratings phase.
**Allow excluding review items.**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Review items can be excluded from the overall final score.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)All review items are included in the overall final score.
**Auto-copy the objectives from the previous review period in the same year. The agreement status will also be copied (e.g., Approved or In Progress).**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)The objectives from the immediately preceding review period's agreement are automatically copied, without needing to select the agreement. The agreement's status will also be copied (e.g., Approved or In Progress). If no immediately preceding agreement is available, the pop-up menu prompts you to create one. In this instance, it does not copy the agreement's status.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)The pop-up menu with the agreement creation options will appear. Objectives from the previous review period's agreement will not be copied.
**When copying from another agreement, use the section weights from the copied agreement rather than those of the review setup. The rest of the structure is copied from the review setup's configuration.**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)The section weights from the copied agreement override the section weights configured in the review setup's settings.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)The copied agreement will inherit the section weights from the review setup's configuration.
**Allow other people (other than the manager) to rate a person at the lowest level (e.g., KPI level).**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Selected people (other than the manager) can evaluate a person on a specific KPI. *Also activates the **Allow Non-Manager Ratings** settings (see below).*
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Only the manager can rate a person at the KPI level. *Also deactivates the **Allow Non-Manager Ratings** settings (see below).*
**Lock agreements for managers and employees.**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Managers and employees can view agreements but not edit them. *Also activates the **Locked Agreements** settings (see below).*
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Managers and employees can view and edit agreements. *Also deactivates the **Locked Agreements** settings (see below).*
**Allow interpolation**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Interpolation is used to map actual values to the rating scales of a KPI. Actual values are entered when rating a KPI, and these values are then mapped to give a rating. A rating can also be excluded.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Interpolation is switched off.
**Allow adding of a training intervention to PDP (when adding a new action plan).**[![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)When adding an action plan to a performance agreement (if enabled), a training intervention can be added to PDP.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Action plans are added to performance agreements without linking to training interventions.
##### **DUAL PARTICIPATION SETTINGS**
**SETTING NAME** **MODE** **DESCRIPTION**
**The person's Self-Rating and Manager Rating must be approved before the Final Rating can be completed.**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)*This setting appears only when **Dual Participation** is enabled.* The main setting, as well as the sub-setting, determines how this functionality will work.
**Sub-setting 1: Show the person's approved Self-Rating to the manager only once the manager has approved the Manager Rating.**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)The person’s self-rating and the manager’s rating must be approved before the final rating can be completed. The person’s self-rating will only show to the manager once the manager's rating has been approved.
**Sub-setting 2: Show the person's approved Self-Rating to the manager, regardless of the Manager Rating approval status.**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)The person’s self-rating and the manager’s rating must be approved before the final rating can be completed. The person’s approved self-rating will be shown to the manager, regardless of whether the manager's ratings have been approved or not.
**Sub-setting 3: Show the Manager Rating to the person only once the Final Rating has been approved.**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)The person’s self-rating and the manager’s rating must be approved before the final rating can be completed. The manager’s rating will only be visible to the person once the final rating has been approved.
**The Manager Rating and the Final Rating can be completed simultaneously (the Final Rating can only be approved once the person's Self-Rating has been approved).**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)*This setting only shows when the **Dual Participation** setting has been enabled.* Both the manager’s rating and the final rating can be completed at the same time. The final rating can be approved only once the person’s self-ratings have been approved. The manager will see the self-ratings only after they have been approved. The employee will see the manager's ratings once they have been approved, and will see the final ratings once they have been approved.
**Only show the Final Rating column and hide the Manager Rating column.**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)*This setting only shows when the **Dual Participation** setting has been enabled.* The manager rating column is hidden, and only the self-ratings and final ratings are needed. The final rating can only be approved when the person’s self-ratings have been approved.
##### **ALLOW NON-MANAGER RATINGS SETTINGS**
**SETTING NAME** **MODE** **DESCRIPTION**
**Allow anonymous evaluations** [![AA Setting switched on.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Qb1eECUlPR9lPHZc-aa-setting-switched-on.png)Selected people, other than the manager, can rate a person on the KPI level. The evaluation results will be presented anonymously. The main setting, as well as the sub-setting, determines how this functionality will work.
[![AA Setting switched off.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/b8wF1tmd4jj1whBs-aa-setting-switched-off.png)Selected people, other than the manager, can rate a person on the KPI level. The comments and ratings of the person who performed the evaluation will be shown.
**Sub-setting 1: Show the results anonymously (the manager and employee will not see who submitted the ratings).**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)Neither the manager nor the employee will see who submitted the ratings.
**Sub-setting 2: Show the results anonymously only to the employee (the manager will see who submitted the ratings, but not the employee).**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)The employee will not be able to see who submitted the ratings and comments, but the manager will.
**Sub-setting 3: Hide the evaluation summary page from employees.**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)The evaluation summary page will not show to employees, but the manager can view it.
**Sub-setting 4: Show the comments and ratings anonymously (the manager and employee will see the ratings and comments submitted).**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)The manager and employee can view the ratings and comments submitted, but will not see who submitted them.
##### **LOCKED AGREEMENTS SETTINGS**
**SETTING NAME** **MODE** **DESCRIPTION**
**Always**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)Managers and employees can view performance agreements, but will not be able to edit them.
**Only when created via a performance management API (when created manually, this rule will not apply).**[![AA Button selected.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/scaled-1680-/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Sh2IxqTKJ9DGyLbl-aa-button-selected.png)Managers and employees can view performance agreements, but will not be able to edit them if the agreements were created using a performance management API.
#### **Review Items** [![PM Review Items Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/6FhAtuqU8QY0To4h-pm-review-items-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click to navigate to **Review Items**. - Click **+REVIEW PERIOD** to load the required review items. - Fill in the name and weight of the review period. Toggle whether the review period is active. [![PM Create Review Period.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/G3rnUQoE0xtKRiCp-pm-create-review-period.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **+REVIEW SURVEY** to add an evaluation to the review setup. - Fill in the name, weight, and maximum score of the review survey. Select the activation status of the review survey, as well as whether the review survey's scores may be revised. [![PM Create Review Survey.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/knVxvwDYzIpk763V-pm-create-review-survey.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If you have finished configuring the review items, they will appear on the **Performance Management** dashboard as shown below: [![PM Review Items.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/sRgUx87cGc9LlYeb-pm-review-items.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) #### **Sections** The different **Sections** of the performance agreement can be switched on or off, assigned weights, or configured for use. The following steps will guide you through the setup and configuration of the sections of a performance agreement. [![PM Review Setup Sections Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/bmQHjKMF7W6NqvUF-pm-review-setup-sections-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) A performance agreement can consist of the following sections: - **Primary Goals** (always enabled by default) - **Stretch Goals** (optional) - **Values and Behaviours** (optional) - **Leadership Behaviours** (optional) - **Key Competencies** (optional) It is important to ensure your section weights add up to 100% for the performance agreement, or you may receive an error message as follows: [![PM Section weights error.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ncJLKIGXXX5aG6F7-pm-section-weights-error.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) Let us look at the settings linked to each section of the performance agreement in more detail. ##### Primary Goals **Primary Goals** form the core performance expectations of a role. They define what must be delivered for the organisation to function effectively and sustainably, representing operational reliability and accountability. Since this section of a performance agreement is always enabled by default, the toggle to disable it is greyed out. [![PM Review Setup - Primary Goals Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/rlgtc0utKnGhyL3y-pm-review-setup-primary-goals-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a weight for this section. - Choose whether the section's weight may change or not. - Configure the settings related to Key Performance Indicator weights: - **Option 1**: The Key Performance Indicator weights must add up to 100% per Key Performance Area. - You can choose to automatically distribute the item weights (i.e. if there are 5 KPIs for a specific KPA, each KPI will have a weight of 20%). - **Option 2**: The Key Performance Indicator weights must sum to 100% across the entire section (i.e., if there are 2 KPAs in the section, each with 2 KPIs, each KPI will have a weight of 25%). - Configure the performance rating scale and the check-in rating scale to be used for this section. Toggle whether comments will be required during check-ins or when rating objectives. ##### Stretch Goals This section is an optional addition to performance agreements. **Stretch Goals** are intentionally ambitious and are typically linked to strategic growth, innovation or transformation rather than routine delivery. [![PM Review Setup - Stretch Goals Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/7kV9fVldBfvE2fXZ-pm-review-setup-stretch-goals-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a weight for this section. - Choose whether the section's weight may change or not. - Configure the settings related to Key Performance Indicator weights: - **Option 1**: The Key Performance Indicator weights must add up to 100% per Key Performance Area. - You can choose to automatically distribute the item weights (i.e. if there are 5 KPIs for a specific KPA, each KPI will have a weight of 20%). - **Option 2**: The Key Performance Indicator weights must sum to 100% across the entire section (i.e., if there are 2 KPAs in the section, each with 2 KPIs, each KPI will have a weight of 25%). - Configure the performance rating scale and the check-in rating scale to be used for this section. Toggle whether comments will be required during check-ins or when rating objectives. ##### Values and Behaviours The **Values and Behaviours** section of a performance agreement supports growth beyond technical competence. Whereas the primary goals focus on what is achieved, this section focuses on *how* it is achieved. Evaluating this section serves several purposes: - - Reinforces organisational culture, - Supports leadership accountability, - Enables development conversations, - Balances results with conduct, and - Mitigates organisational risk. [![PM Review Setup - Values and Behaviours Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/WnkkC63RNmd8bQTe-pm-review-setup-values-and-behaviours-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a weight for this section. - Choose whether the section's weight may change or not. - Select whether item weights may be distributed automatically (i.e. if there are 5 items, they will each have a weight of 20%). - Decide whether to allow users to add or remove items from this list. - Configure the performance rating scale and the check-in rating scale to be used for this section. Toggle whether comments will be required during check-ins or when rating items. - Link master data values and behaviours to the performance agreement. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2369#bkmrk-how-do-i-update-the- "How do I update the Master Data Library for Performance Management?") to find out how to update the **Master Data Library**. ##### Leadership Behaviours Including a **Leadership Behaviours** section in a performance agreement is crucial to strategic governance. It not only assesses leadership effectiveness but also emphasises its direct influence on organisational culture and long-term success. At senior levels, leadership behaviours significantly shape the broader organisational environment, influencing team dynamics, decision-making, and overall performance beyond individual KPIs. [![PM Review Setup - Leadership Behaviours Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/vWiHE8vxBymBnrMM-pm-review-setup-leadership-behaviours-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a weight for this section. - Choose whether the section's weight may change or not. - Select whether item weights may be distributed automatically (i.e. if there are 4 items, they will each have a weight of 25%). - Decide whether to allow users to add or remove items from this list. - Configure the performance rating scale and the check-in rating scale to be used for this section. Toggle whether comments will be required during check-ins or when rating items. - Link master data leadership behaviours to the performance agreement. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2369#bkmrk-how-do-i-update-the- "How do I update the Master Data Library for Performance Management?") to find out how to update the **Master Data Library**. ##### Key Competencies Listing **Key Competencies** in a performance agreement ensures that capability, not only output, is formally assessed. While goals measure results, competencies evaluate the underlying skills and proficiency that enable sustained performance. This section strengthens talent governance, succession planning and capability development. [![PM Review Setup - Key Competencies Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/qSmC8CUlskOiYCgt-pm-review-setup-key-competencies-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a weight for this section. - Choose whether the section's weight may change or not. - Select whether item weights may be distributed automatically (i.e. if there are 5 items, they will each have a weight of 20%). - Decide whether to allow users to link additional key competencies from the **Master Data Library**. - Configure the performance rating scale and the check-in rating scale to be used for this section. Toggle whether comments will be required during check-ins or when rating items. ##### Action Plan Linking an **Action Plan** to a performance agreement transforms the document from a static evaluation tool into a dynamic performance management instrument. It ensures that identified gaps, risks or development areas are not merely recorded but actively addressed. In other words, this section closes the loop between assessment and improvement. Toggle to switch action plans on or off. [![PM Review Setup - Action Plan.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/09aJ0yZY0xBHC2eJ-pm-review-setup-action-plan.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) #### **Templates** The final menu item when creating or editing review setups is **Templates**. For more information on how to create, import, or edit performance agreement templates, please view the next section in this chapter, titled "**Settings Explained: Performance Agreement Templates**". [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Settings Explained: Performance Agreement Templates [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) Creating performance agreement **templates** can greatly enhance the efficiency of developing performance agreements, making the process smoother and more organised. This not only ensures **consistency** in format but also helps minimise administrative burdens. By following this guide, you’ll be equipped to craft reusable performance agreement templates that can serve effectively across multiple performance cycles. To begin, ensure you are on the **Templates** screen in the review setup's settings. [![PM Templates Home Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/JwsTPu96J6YBQdJk-pm-templates-home-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)
### Create New Template - Click **+NEW TEMPLATE**. [![PM Templates New Template Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/xdjteEo3SVS2mSax-pm-templates-new-template-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a descriptive title for this performance agreement template. Choose whether the template should be published or whether the weights of this template should override the weights configured in the review setup's settings. [![PM Templates Add Template Details.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/ApFxJewgCUkJDLcj-pm-templates-add-template-details.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) #### Add Primary Goals and Stretch Goals The process for adding primary and stretch goals is the same for both sections. Follow the steps below to add primary goals, then repeat them for stretch goals. ##### Add perspectives - If you are using perspectives, click **+PERSPECTIVE**. If not, skip ahead to adding a key performance area. [![PM Templates Add Perspective.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/ffFIEpgwLeVcfwb2-pm-templates-add-perspective.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Select a perspective from the drop-down menu and assign a weight. Click **SAVE ADD NEW** to continue adding more perspectives to this section, or click **SAVE** if you are done. [![PM Templates Add Perspective Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/2CzebdBwKiZ35t9t-pm-templates-add-perspective-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your added perspectives and their assigned weights will display on the screen. ##### Add KPAs - Click **+KEY PERFORMANCE AREA** to add a KPA. [![PM Templates Add Template Add KPA Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/mQo1RQ8x5ZiCfJOQ-pm-templates-add-template-add-kpa-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Type in your own KPA, or select one from the **Master Data Library**. Assign weights to the KPAs, ensuring that their total for each perspective (or section, if not using perspectives) equals 100%. Click **SAVE ADD NEW** to continue adding more KPAs, or click **SAVE** if you are done. [![PM Templates Add Template Add KPA.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/I7B7UYWOtLmSWCO8-pm-templates-add-template-add-kpa.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your added KPAs and their assigned weights will display on the screen. [![PM Templates Add Template KPA Added.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/4qZs6k02GzlM4ntT-pm-templates-add-template-kpa-added.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ##### Add KPIs - Click **KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR+** to add a KPI to a KPA. [![PM Templates Add Template Add KPI Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/u6a1wK4rI5kBnvrn-pm-templates-add-template-add-kpi-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Type in your own KPI, or select one from the **Master Data Library**. Complete details of the KPA, such as a description, related activities, measures, and an apt rating scale. [![PM Templates Add Template Add KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/jbLpkDtw4RF6CLwU-pm-templates-add-template-add-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **SAVE ADD NEW** to continue adding more KPAs, or click **SAVE** if you are done. [![PM Templates Add Template Save KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/KVThvQdmcqAwpDqM-pm-templates-add-template-save-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your added KPIs and their assigned weights will display on the screen. [![PM Templates Add Template KPI Added.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/FZqULTX8DBLpUKma-pm-templates-add-template-kpi-added.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) #### Add Values and Behaviours, Leadership Behaviours, and Key Competencies Values and Behaviours are configured in the review setup's settings and will automatically be populated when the performance agreement is created. [![PM Templates V and B.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/0mgxoZO03LPc4xlb-pm-templates-v-and-b.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) The same will happen with Leadership Behaviours. [![PM Templates LB.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/6amf4kPc5i8p00O5-pm-templates-lb.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) Key Competencies can be linked to the performance agreement template by either creating your own, or selecting one from the **Master Data Library**. [![PM Templates Add KC.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/IE9dyOiWIRN8kBVi-pm-templates-add-kc.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) [![PM Templates KC.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/65fGUgcb9iXrH6dy-pm-templates-kc.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) #### Save a created template - Before you save the template you have created, ensure the following is in place: - The template has a descriptive name. - The template is published (if it is ready to be used in your review setup). - The template's weights are correct. - All the weights of the **perspectives** in a section should add up to 100%. - All the weights of the **KPAs linked to a perspective (or to a section, if not using perspectives) should sum to 100%. - All **KPI** weights linked to a KPA should total 100%. - Click **SAVE**. [![PM Templates Save Template Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/TFZOn9OUobsoK28X-pm-templates-save-template-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A message indicating the successful creation of the template will display. [![PM Templates Add Template Success.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/bmqQIODZhNxmhjKz-pm-templates-add-template-success.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the weights of the template are not balanced, an error message will display. [![PM Templates Add Template Item Weights Error.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/w5iskqMJxWLkCOAI-pm-templates-add-template-item-weights-error.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Import a Template Templates can also be imported using an import sheet. The template will be populated using Excel, staged for import into the **Performance Management** module, and automatically linked to a review setup. - To begin importing a template, access the **Module-Specific Functions** menu. [![PM Template Module-Specific Functions.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/t7ez8t8WXfTMZcau-pm-template-module-specific-functions.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **Import**. [![PM Template Import.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/sXWze1ICCViotNvv-pm-template-import.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Select **Performance Management** from the drop-down menu, and ensure it is set to import **templates**. Click **PROCEED** to continue. [![PM Template Import Selection Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/T9FBUKKPHIHxOmGk-pm-template-import-selection-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Download** the Excel import file and populate it with the template's details. - When you have completed this step, click **UPLOAD IMPORT FILE** to upload your import file. [![PM Template Import Upload or Download Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/mYPRVk3G8sK4gez1-pm-template-import-upload-or-download-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Once the file has successfully uploaded, click **IMPORT**. [![PM Template Import Template Uploaded.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/mWhePIc1Jih3uQyB-pm-template-import-template-uploaded.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The import results will be displayed. If the file was successfully **staged** for import, the results will all show green ticks. [![PM Template Import Template Staged.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/u1C3kaO0HBEXN8b4-pm-template-import-template-staged.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To view the status of the template's import, navigate to the **system inbox**. [![PM Template Import Status Inbox.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/hDuqNM2KX2xGmXLu-pm-template-import-status-inbox.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **Imports**. [![PM Template Imports in Inbox Filter.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/6pAwEzvorbxdfFxY-pm-template-imports-in-inbox-filter.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The table will show all the results of recent system imports. Locate your performance template import entry, and view the status. - **Staged**: The import is still in progress. - **Completed**: The import has completed successfully. - **CompletedWithErrors**: There are errors in your import file. [![PM Template Import Template Staged MEssage in Inbox.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/bhQRYmCuJBMEw2xn-pm-template-import-template-staged-message-in-inbox.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To view the errors with your import file, find the **CompletedWithErrors** entry and hover over the three dots. [![PM Template Import Completed With Errors.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/kiZXDd2C8LT1FLSn-pm-template-import-completed-with-errors.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **Export Errors** to investigate why the template did not complete the import process. [![PM Template Import Completed Export Errors.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/kSE2IzCW4hSXosMq-pm-template-import-completed-export-errors.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The export document containing the errors will be located in your **system inbox**. [![PM Template Import Completed Export Errors Confirmation.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/1xi3fcpRioCji5C9-pm-template-import-completed-export-errors-confirmation.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Once you have reviewed all errors with your imported templates, they should import successfully, and your **template library** should look like this: [![PM Template Library.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/9VnnCWohWH3J13MG-pm-template-library.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Templates can easily be copied or deleted by hovering over the desired template and either clicking the copy or the dustbin icon. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Chapter 4: Using the Performance Management Module The true value of the **Performance Management** module lies in how it’s used to drive individual and organisational success. This chapter offers practical guidance on the module’s key functionalities, including goal or objective setting, conducting performance reviews, and giving constructive feedback. Each section is designed to provide step-by-step instructions to help you maximise the system’s potential. By understanding how to effectively utilise these features, you’ll empower your organisation to build a culture of continuous improvement and achieve measurable outcomes. # Before You Start [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) #### Before you start: - Consider populating the **Master Data Library** with performance management items, which can streamline the performance management process. These library items include: - - Perspectives - Key Performance Areas - Key Performance Indicators - Leadership Behaviours - Values and Behaviours - Key Competencies Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2369#bkmrk-how-do-i-update-the- "How do I update the Master Data Library for Performance Management?") to find out how to update the **Master Data Library**. ![PM Master data library.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/hlvpHk91W0JzYahg-pm-master-data-library.png) - Ensure you have a clear understanding of the employee's responsibilities, the company's goals, and how the role fits into the overall picture. - Base the performance objectives on **SMART goals**. Each objective should be: - - Specific - Measurable - Achievable - Relevant - Time-bound - Ensure the goals support the department or organisation's priorities. - Select clear performance indicators. - Finally, employees are more likely to commit to the process if they have input in setting their goals, so consider engaging in a two-way discussion #### Key elements to include: - **Performance goals and objectives** - These should be aligned with organisational priorities. - Keep the language simple and clear. - Avoid making goals too broad or unrealistic. - **Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)** - Select quantitative and qualitative indicators for each objective. - Focus on the most impactful goals to avoid overloading the agreement. - The employee's input is vital when setting targets. ![PM Performance agreement KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/I5aPWA52VbfiQQqg-pm-performance-agreement-kpi.png) - **Behavioural expectations** - Include company values, as well as expected behaviours in teamwork, leadership, or communication. - **Employee support** - Consider the tools, resources, or support from management that the employee may need to succeed. - Acknowledge that priorities may shift and that agreements should be revisited if needed. - Think about the employee's development and their future potential. - **Review process and frequency** - Define how and when progress will be evaluated. - Incorporate feedback loops that enable feedback to flow from the manager to the employee and vice versa. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Creating a Performance Agreement [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) [![PM Phases Step 1.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/scaled-1680-/6UQTT7OTgrgu5OYb-pm-phases-step-1.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/6UQTT7OTgrgu5OYb-pm-phases-step-1.png) The following section will guide you through creating a performance agreement. The guide assumes you do not have an existing agreement for the current performance cycle and that you wish to create one. - Begin by navigating to the **Performance Management** dashboard. ![PM Dashboard (Employee).png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Q1hagynMO737QZsl-pm-dashboard-employee.png) - Click **START** to create a new performance agreement. ![PM Start creating a performance agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/UIHAMKbQP4PvM2DL-pm-start-creating-a-performance-agreement.png) - The **Performance Management** module allows a performance agreement to be created in three ways for employees. ![PM Create PM agreement options for employees.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Rx9o0GI3vWKD2g7r-pm-create-pm-agreement-options-for-employees.png) - Managers are offered an additional option to create a performance agreement for a reportee using a template from another team member. ![PM Create PM agreement options for managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/UBTyjUgcts7duwJB-pm-create-pm-agreement-options-for-managers.png) Click on the following tabs to expand the step-by-step instructions.
Create a blank agreement - Click **Create Blank** to start creating a performance agreement from the beginning. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/0Xwij9aR5vNCwfSS-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/w6NLqkBJ2abHvZGD-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank-start.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, showing the different sections, though it won't include any objectives at this stage. Adding objectives is covered in the next section. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank – Agreement Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/XDGzjO45wmi1ycMO-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank-agreement-screen.png)
Use a performance agreement template - Click **Copy From Template** to create a performance agreement based on a system template. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/QmMMiriSm9KdFtKR-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/zDSjduKEIdCRfXkx-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-start.png) - A list of the templates currently on the system will be shown. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – List.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Ypf07gaxhGAnFJHk-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-list.png) - - - Use the search bar to search for a template based on a job title or specific keywords. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Search Bar.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/AWqzvPY8QBQX9DrX-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-search-bar.png) - - - A **tick** will be displayed if the template's weights override the review setup's weights. A **cross** indicates that the review setup's weights will be used. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Use Template Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/lMw8sukVaHJP4Swu-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-use-template-weights.png) - - - To ensure you select the correct template, you can preview it by clicking the icon. The preview will open in a new tab. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Preview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/gactQaNiLlF6DQ0v-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-preview.png) - Choose a template you would like to copy, then click **CREATE**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Create.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/T3kHzyO8dtSd2lvw-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-create.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, with the **Perspective**, **Key Performance Area**, and **Key Performance Indicator** fields filled in from the template. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Agreement Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/4Gj5Dz8khGbtc7Hd-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-agreement-screen.png)
Copy from a previous agreement - Click **Copy From Previous** to create a performance agreement based on an agreement from a previous performance cycle. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/anF1iUHhaHJVjDz8-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Iiyt3xWZWiijd9P9-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous-start.png) - A list of the performance agreements from previous review periods will be shown. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous – Select.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/83AX0ELdQO0QaHmi-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous-select.png) - - - To ensure you select the correct performance agreement, you can preview it by clicking the icon. The preview will open in a new tab. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Preview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/gactQaNiLlF6DQ0v-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-preview.png) - Select the performance agreement you would like to copy, then click **CREATE**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous – Create.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/6xRnAuPpmoZzY3Jf-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous-create.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, with the **Perspective**, **Key Performance Area**, and **Key Performance Indicator** fields filled in from the previous agreement. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Agreement Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/4Gj5Dz8khGbtc7Hd-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-agreement-screen.png)
Copy an agreement from another employee (Managers only!) - Click **Copy From Another** to create a performance agreement based on another employee's agreement. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/eWEihZfNM6RP4prI-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/qVUVG72Qg6UUjDTs-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-start.png) - A list of the other employees in your team's performance agreements will be shown. These agreements are from the current and previous review periods. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - List.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/TRwGoBDBOVZUgWgt-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-list.png) - - - To ensure you select the correct performance agreement, you can preview it by clicking the icon. The preview will open in a new tab. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Preview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/gactQaNiLlF6DQ0v-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-preview.png) - Select the performance agreement you would like to copy, then click **CREATE**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - Create.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/iJIGNnZ0kIx6GC42-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-create.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, with the **Perspective**, **Key Performance Area**, and **Key Performance Indicator** fields filled in from the other employee's performance agreement. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - Agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/qj3wwQ0CZJUy3ltJ-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-agreement.png)
[![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) [Your feedback matters! How helpful was the support content?](https://forms.office.com/r/LugDBTGaZu) # Objective-Setting Phase [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)[![PM Phases Step 2.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/scaled-1680-/CohWXeeT08DADD0B-pm-phases-step-2.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/CohWXeeT08DADD0B-pm-phases-step-2.png) ### The Objective-Setting Phase Explained When creating a performance agreement, it is important to understand the **WHY**. Why is it important to set objectives? The answer is simple: to bring **clarity**. Having a clearly outlined goal makes it easier for managers and employees alike to achieve success. For helpful tips on approaching the objective-setting phase, please visit the [**Before You Start**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/page/before-you-start "Before You Start") page. The following guide will help you through setting your objectives, and will assume you are using all of the following **sections** in a performance agreement: - **Primary Goals** - Perspectives (optional) - Key Performance Areas - Key Performance Indicators - **Stretch Goals (optional)** - Perspectives (optional) - Key Performance Areas - Key Performance Indicators - **Values and Behaviours (optional)** - **Leadership Behaviours (optional)** - **Key Competencies (optional)** The **Performance Management** module is modular and can be configured to suit your unique performance management processes. For examples of how different combinations of review setup settings work, or of different performance management configurations, please see the [**Tips and Use Cases**](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/chapter/chapter-5-tips-and-use-cases "Tips and Use Cases") chapter. [![PM Performance agreement sections.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/1pjhifpctqSUdh74-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) Below is an example of a complete performance agreement that uses all available sections. - It has been populated with **perspectives**, **KPAs**, **KPIs**, and assigned **weights**. - The **side menu** provides an overview of the performance agreement and allows easy **navigation** between its sections. [![PM - Example of a Performance Agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/scaled-1680-/J5SsJMMrLWd91pki-pm-example-of-a-performance-agreement.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/J5SsJMMrLWd91pki-pm-example-of-a-performance-agreement.png) ### Our Example's Settings Based on your review setup, you may be using some (or all) of the aforementioned performance agreement sections. ***Not all sections are mandatory***. If a section (such as Stretch Goals) or a feature (such as Perspectives) does not apply to your review setup, you are more than welcome to skip its tutorial and proceed to the next step. For our example, the following review setup settings have been enabled: [![PM Example Review Setup - Dual Participation.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Y7ZiFp01ZlC5W0N7-pm-example-review-setup-dual-participation.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) Additionally, the automatic distribution of item weights has been enabled for all settings: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Auto-distribute Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/YpgZhXKQnhOQ8nr3-pm-create-blank-agreement-auto-distribute-weights.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) The setting to add or delete items on a list (such as the Values and Behaviours list) has been disabled: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add or Edit List Items.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/6r6dGKuAYaUbRKoA-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-or-edit-list-items.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### How to Complete the Objective-Setting Phase Expand the following collapsible blocks to learn more.
PRIMARY GOALS #### Primary Goals ##### Overview of the process [![PM Objective Setting - Primary Goals overview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/dblItZdqbAH0KEA4-pm-objective-setting-primary-goals-overview.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/UICFVpUjpoZCwiHZ-pm-objective-setting-primary-goals-overview.png) ##### Add perspectives - For this tutorial, we will assume you selected **Create Blank** when creating the performance agreement. [![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/w6NLqkBJ2abHvZGD-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank-start.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The blank performance agreement will be populated with the sections that have been activated in the review setup's configuration. Please note, the **red headings** in the menu on the left show that information is missing, such as missing perspectives, KPAs, KPIs, or unbalanced weights. The weights of unbalanced sections will also flash red. [![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank – Start.png](https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYXV4anB6anJjd2RnbHVjNzg1aWxhcGowNjdmOTB2eHhkaHN3cWU5aiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/8m9ibcg0SWuvw5JvlC/giphy.gif)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **+PERSPECTIVE** to add a perspective. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add Perspective.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/EVBi9a87vHnPZ99N-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-perspective.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Select a perspective which has been loaded to the **Master Data Library**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Perspective Library.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/CM0EVrnLXyrDvjiy-pm-create-blank-agreement-perspective-library.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Assign a weight to the perspective, then click **SAVE ADD NEW** to continue adding more perspectives. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Perspective Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/f8QdmmfHV34TFcUZ-pm-create-blank-agreement-perspective-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Once you have finished adding all the perspectives, your agreement should look something like this: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Perspectives Added.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ACjxn6C9iznn4WAT-pm-create-blank-agreement-perspectives-added.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Ensure all the perspective weights in this section add up to 100%. - To delete a perspective, hover over its title, then click the dustbin icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Perspectives Deletion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/l9QVqnMFPYueX6gD-pm-create-blank-agreement-perspectives-deletion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A perspective can be tagged for discussion with your manager by clicking the tag icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Tag Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/kACYPLsi3EGbLuVN-pm-create-blank-agreement-tag-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your manager will receive a message in their system inbox regarding your query. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Discussion with Manager.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/uqu2qALCSQrE9VJk-pm-create-blank-agreement-discussion-with-manager.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Documents linked to a specific performance agreement item can be viewed by clicking on the folder icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - View Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/BTBJFn4sPQpGR60x-pm-create-blank-agreement-view-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Linked documents will display in the table on the **Documents** screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Uploaded Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/XmhoDmPaSTHsXUEO-pm-create-blank-agreement-uploaded-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ##### Add KPAs - Click **+KEY PERFORMANCE AREA** to add a KPA. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add KPA.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Ycf7nbv01epIQ3Ku-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-kpa.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Either type your own KPA or select one from the **Master Data Library**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/R8bBrfxKWirZ5Rwo-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If using **Master Data Library** items, click on the hand icon to search for a KPA. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Library.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/S8yokEEzPIylybw7-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-library.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click on the KPA you would like to **link**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Library Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/E1ykdJF4j1YcUEYG-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-library-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Assign a **weight**. Click **SAVE ADD NEW** to keep adding additional KPAs for this perspective, or **SAVE** if you are done. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Save.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/LMwD5XDHoUOUeUqx-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-save.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Ensure all the weights of the KPAs linked to a specific perspective add up to 100%. - To **delete** a KPA, hover over its title, then click the dustbin icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Deletion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ctHW1lz814AQ8ojX-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-deletion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A KPA can be **tagged** for discussion with your manager by clicking the tag icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Tag Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ivwDWaozN6tRoN0O-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-tag-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your manager will receive a message in their **system inbox** regarding your query. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Discussion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/PoeUNFBVxTf4ets9-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-discussion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Documents** linked to a specific KPA can be **viewed** by clicking on the folder icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA View Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/hY9UGkemRxUO6hNf-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-view-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Linked **documents** will **display** in the table on the **Documents** screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Uploaded Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/XmhoDmPaSTHsXUEO-pm-create-blank-agreement-uploaded-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ##### Add KPIs - Click the plus icon next to **KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR** to add a KPI. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/f2HHGnnbPOwxzwrC-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Either type your own KPI or select one from the **Master Data Library**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add KPI Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/szKTTw38STMFklK7-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-kpi-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If using **Master Data Library** items, click on the hand icon to **search** for a KPI. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add KPI from Library.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/FobpuMCu19vZwX65-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-kpi-from-library.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click on the KPI you would like to **link**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Select KPI from Library.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/QztPDzUArnvREi2l-pm-create-blank-agreement-select-kpi-from-library.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the **weights are automatically distributed** (based on your review setup's settings), the KPI's weight will be calculated automatically. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Auto-distribute Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/YpgZhXKQnhOQ8nr3-pm-create-blank-agreement-auto-distribute-weights.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If this setting is switched off, you should assign a weight to this KPI. For more information on review setup settings, click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2544#bkmrk-sections "Sections of a Performance Agreement"). - If a **rating scale** has been configured on your review setup's settings, you can click to insert this pre-saved rating scale, or choose to construct your own. For more information on rating scales, click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2544#bkmrk-sections "Sections of a Performance Agreement"). - If **interpolation** has been activated for this review setup, you can choose to interpolate the scores of this KPI if required. - For example, if the KPI requires selling more than 10 cars a month, you can use interpolation to calculate the scores of employees who sold 13, 20, 30, or 40 cars a month. - During the **Rating phase**, you would enter how many cars were sold, and the system would automatically calculate a rating for this KPI. - For more information on how this works, click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/page/settings-explained-create-or-edit-review-setup#bkmrk-setting-name "Interpolation"). [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Interpolation.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Fw1ZlWtAKemYl5vF-pm-create-blank-agreement-interpolation.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **SAVE ADD NEW** to keep adding additional KPIs for this perspective, or **SAVE** if you are done. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Save KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/gu0CfiOOtzxh4ycE-pm-create-blank-agreement-save-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Check to ensure the KPI **weights** are **balanced** for this section. There are two possible settings for KPI weights: - The **Key Performance Indicator weights must add up to 100% per Key Performance Area** setting is on, as shown in our example, and you need to adjust the weights accordingly (if the auto-distribute weights setting has been switched off). [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Auto-distribute Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/YpgZhXKQnhOQ8nr3-pm-create-blank-agreement-auto-distribute-weights.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ***OR*** - - The **Key Performance Indicator weights must sum to 100% across the entire section** setting is on, and you need to adjust the weights accordingly (if the auto-distribute weights setting has been switched off). ***[![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPIs in Section add up to 100.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/54yJoQKtxG5bDMce-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpis-in-section-add-up-to-100.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)*** *If you are unsure which setting is active, please contact your performance management administrator.* [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/IvvPtsgKvDGyli0P-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-weights.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To **delete** a KPI, hover over it and click the dustbin icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Delete KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/MlnEJ1RnSsScDc3Z-pm-create-blank-agreement-delete-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A KPI can be **tagged** for discussion with your manager by clicking the tag icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Tag Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/TMRQGCOSFUOfVYbW-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-tag-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your manager will receive a message in their **system inbox** regarding your comment or query. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Discussion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/PoeUNFBVxTf4ets9-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-discussion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Hovering over a KPI will show its **activities**, **measures**, and **ratings**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Activities, Measures, Ratings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/71SbiCQzkBY8LFId-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-activities-measures-ratings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Documents** linked to a specific KPI can be **viewed** by clicking on the folder icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI View Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/LRXeTLtKGqx617pn-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-view-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Linked **documents** will **display** in the table on the **Documents** screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI View Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/d22nlAt4QdyWgVoy-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-view-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **UPLOAD** to upload a document linked to a specific KPI. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Upload Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/iDg6zRKmwDZF5rCk-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-upload-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **LINK DOCUMENT** to link a document from an external storage location, such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or SharePoint. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Link Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/GmbyJfGZ6LIQthpD-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-link-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Back on the objective setting screen, click to link an **action plan** to a specific KPI. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/bPpFcd8FHrVycgkr-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **details** of the **action plan** can be captured on the pop-up screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ACnPEIXlLV1adKnc-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If training is required for this KPI, a training intervention can be linked from the **Training Intervention Library**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan - Training Required.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/xNdfqB8ykko4ethp-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-training-required.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **comment** may be added to a KPI by the manager or the employee. - It is important to ensure your weights for this section are correct. [![PM Performance Agreement Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-03/6MXxJCerj4e8b4cY-pm-performance-agreement-weights.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If your weights of perspectives, KPAs, or KPIs are unbalanced, you will receive the following error message when attempting to submit your objectives: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Incorrect Weights at KPI or KPA level.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/wbnlZeU6ZKKh3sGc-pm-create-blank-agreement-incorrect-weights-at-kpi-or-kpa-level.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)
STRETCH GOALS #### Stretch Goals ##### Overview of the process [![PM Objective Setting - Stretch Goals overview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/IKh35QjrvfGO19k4-pm-objective-setting-stretch-goals-overview.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/ivWZbUVt3epHE62B-pm-objective-setting-stretch-goals-overview.png) ##### Add perspectives The process for adding perspectives in the Stretch Goals section is the same as Primary Goals. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/page/objective-setting-phase#bkmrk-add-perspectives "Add perspectives") to jump to the tutorial. ##### Add KPAs The process for adding KPAs in the Stretch Goals section is the same as Primary Goals. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/page/objective-setting-phase#bkmrk-add-kpas "Add KPAs") to jump to the tutorial. ##### Add KPIs The process for adding KPIs in the Stretch Goals section is the same as Primary Goals. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/page/objective-setting-phase#bkmrk-add-kpishttps://signature.signifyhr.co.za/books/performance-management-sq2/page/objective-setting-phase#bkmrk-add-kpis "Add KPIs") to jump to the tutorial. For more information regarding the settings used to configure Stretch Goals, click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2544#bkmrk-stretch-goals "Stretch Goals Settings"). Once completed, your Stretch Goals section may look similar to our example below: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Stretch Goals.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/YdQnuSGFkzHEG1Pw-pm-create-blank-agreement-stretch-goals.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)
VALUES AND BEHAVIOURS #### Values and Behaviours The objectives in this section are **automatically populated** when the performance agreement is created. For more information regarding the **settings** used to configure Values and Behaviours, click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2544#bkmrk-%C2%A0-5 "Values and Behaviours Settings"). Once completed, your V**alues and Behaviours section** may look similar to our example below: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Values and Behaviours.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/3jsP7T9SwMASmqOr-pm-create-blank-agreement-values-and-behaviours.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the **addition or deletion** of items to the list has been enabled, you may link additional items to the performance agreement. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2369#bkmrk-how-do-i-update-the- "How do I update the Master Data Library for Performance Management?") to find out how to update the **Master Data Library**. You can hover over an item and click the dustbin icon to **delete** it. In our example, this setting has been disabled. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add or Edit List Items.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/6r6dGKuAYaUbRKoA-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-or-edit-list-items.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the **auto-distribution of weights** setting has been enabled, the system will automatically assign a weight to each item in the list. However, if this setting has been disabled, please ensure the **weights** of the items in this list add up to 100%. In our example, this setting has been enabled. [![image.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/CMVERx6tfsLO65r0-image.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A Values and Behaviours item can be **tagged** for discussion with your manager by clicking the tag icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Values and Behaviours - Tag Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/leISl0Woq4zbVkcw-pm-create-blank-agreement-values-and-behaviours-tag-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your manager will receive a message in their **system inbox** regarding your comment or query. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Discussion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/PoeUNFBVxTf4ets9-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-discussion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Documents** linked to a specific Values and Behaviours item can be **viewed** by clicking on the folder icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Values and Behaviours - View Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/dVm2YRdjwfHiMIFA-pm-create-blank-agreement-values-and-behaviours-view-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Linked **documents** will **display** in the table on the **Documents** screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI View Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/d22nlAt4QdyWgVoy-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-view-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **UPLOAD** to upload a document. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Upload Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/iDg6zRKmwDZF5rCk-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-upload-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **LINK DOCUMENT** to link a document from an external storage location, such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or SharePoint. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Link Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/GmbyJfGZ6LIQthpD-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-link-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Back on the objective setting screen, click to link an **action plan** to a specific Values and Behaviours item. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Values and Behaviours - Link Action Plan.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/iROWsLLsg3HpTgpb-pm-create-blank-agreement-values-and-behaviours-link-action-plan.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **details** of the **action plan** can be captured on the pop-up screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ACnPEIXlLV1adKnc-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If training is required for this Values and Behaviours item, a training intervention can be linked from the **Training Intervention Library**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan - Training Required.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/xNdfqB8ykko4ethp-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-training-required.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **comment** may be added to a Value or Behaviour by the manager or the employee.
LEADERSHIP BEHAVIOURS #### Leadership Behaviours The objectives in this section are **automatically populated** when the performance agreement is created. For more information regarding the **settings** used to configure Leadership Behaviours, click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2544#bkmrk-leadership-behaviour "Leadership Behaviours Settings"). Once completed, your **Leadership Behaviours section** may look similar to our example below: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Leadership Behaviours.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/JQSgMRNeERKrYee6-pm-create-blank-agreement-leadership-behaviours.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the **addition or deletion** of items to the list has been enabled, you may link additional items to the performance agreement. Click [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2369#bkmrk-how-do-i-update-the- "How do I update the Master Data Library for Performance Management?") to find out how to update the **Master Data Library**. You can hover over an item and click the dustbin icon to **delete** it. In our example, this setting has been disabled. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add or Edit List Items.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/6r6dGKuAYaUbRKoA-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-or-edit-list-items.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the **auto-distribution of weights** setting has been enabled, the system will automatically assign a weight to each item in the list. However, if this setting has been disabled, please ensure the **weights** of the items in this list add up to 100%. In our example, this setting has been enabled. [![image.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/CMVERx6tfsLO65r0-image.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A Leadership Behaviours item can be **tagged** for discussion with your manager by clicking the tag icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Leadership Behaviours - Tag Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/npGiLuok7a9Un1kJ-pm-create-blank-agreement-leadership-behaviours-tag-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your manager will receive a message in their **system inbox** regarding your comment or query. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPA Discussion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/PoeUNFBVxTf4ets9-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpa-discussion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Documents** linked to a specific Leadership Behaviours item can be **viewed** by clicking on the folder icon. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Leadership Behaviours - View Documents.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/KnNpoEVVdf1pXi2F-pm-create-blank-agreement-leadership-behaviours-view-documents.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Linked **documents** will **display** in the table on the **Documents** screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI View Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/d22nlAt4QdyWgVoy-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-view-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **UPLOAD** to upload a document. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Upload Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/iDg6zRKmwDZF5rCk-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-upload-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **LINK DOCUMENT** to link a document from an external storage location, such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or SharePoint. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Link Documents Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/GmbyJfGZ6LIQthpD-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-link-documents-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Back on the objective setting screen, click to link an **action plan** to a specific Leadership Behaviours item. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Leadership Behaviours - Link Action Plan.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/25EPY3z4vJyhqVju-pm-create-blank-agreement-leadership-behaviours-link-action-plan.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **details** of the **action plan** can be captured on the pop-up screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ACnPEIXlLV1adKnc-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If training is required for this Leadership Behaviours item, a training intervention can be linked from the **Training Intervention Library**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan - Training Required.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/xNdfqB8ykko4ethp-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-training-required.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **comment** may be added to a Leadership Behaviour by the manager or the employee.
KEY COMPETENCIES #### Key Competencies The settings governing the **Key Competencies** section is explained [here](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/link/2544#bkmrk-key-competencies "Key Competencies Settings"). - Click to link key competencies to the performance agreement. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add Key Competencies Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/OMb9FkTyCtBSxAvl-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-key-competencies-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A key competency can be selected from the **Master Data Library**, or you can type your own. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add Key Competencies.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/I9UuIKjmz29iwkj9-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-key-competencies.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add a **description**, appropriate **measures**, and a **rating scale** for this competency. - Click to activate **interpolation** for this item. - Click **SAVE ADD NEW** to add an additional item, or click **SAVE** if you are done. - Once you have completed the key competencies section, your performance agreement may look something like this: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Key Competencies.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/nl5nJdcZH2q3j5p5-pm-create-blank-agreement-key-competencies.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Documents may be linked to key competency items, as well as action plans. - A comment may be added to a Key Competency by the manager or the employee.
ACTION PLAN #### Action Plan An action plan can be linked to a performance agreement, with actionable steps and milestones to track progress. - To create an action plan, click **+ACTION.** A previous action plan item may also be copied to the current performance agreement. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Action Plan.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ByiZOhN6JjRPykrh-pm-create-blank-agreement-action-plan.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **details** of the **action plan** can be captured on the pop-up screen. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Add Action Plan.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/3XXmmZdMOQtFpgSH-pm-create-blank-agreement-add-action-plan.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If training is required for this action plan, a training intervention can be linked from the **Training Intervention Library**, or you may type your own. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - KPI Action Plan - Training Required.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/xNdfqB8ykko4ethp-pm-create-blank-agreement-kpi-action-plan-training-required.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)
GENERAL COMMENTS #### General Comments General comments, from the employee as well as the manager, can be made on the performance agreement. Click **+GENERAL COMMENT** to add a new comment. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - General Comments.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/BVOBSe1PPppqFuhP-pm-create-blank-agreement-general-comments.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)
### Submitting Your Objectives To ensure you are ready to submit your objectives, ask yourself the following questions: - - - - - - - - If you have gone through this list and double-checked your performance agreement, you can use the toolbar at the bottom of the screen to finalise your objectives: [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Next Steps.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/sk3fhbd2a0Vgyrlp-pm-create-blank-agreement-next-steps.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If you would like to edit the section weights of the performance agreement, click **EDIT SECTION WEIGHTS**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Edit Section Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/qRHZeXVkfZKhP21S-pm-create-blank-agreement-edit-section-weights.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If you would like to view or print the performance agreement, click **VIEW/PRINT**. The performance agreement will open in a new tab. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - View or Print.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/jnaj2ULHUHXMvt87-pm-create-blank-agreement-view-or-print.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The performance agreement can be exported to Excel as a spreadsheet by clicking **EXPORT**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Export to Excel.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ABgalDuXidP1A6SI-pm-create-blank-agreement-export-to-excel.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Save** the document. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - View or Print - Export.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/gafzubP1g3B01FTD-pm-create-blank-agreement-view-or-print-export.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Print** the document using the print dialogue. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Print Agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/owOEI7daWziAtQTs-pm-create-blank-agreement-eprint-agreement.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Back on the performance agreement screen, click **SUBMIT OBJECTIVES** if you are ready to submit the performance agreement for approval. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Submit Objectives.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/qDzUOrhsep7L6w3y-pm-create-blank-agreement-submit-objectives.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A confirmation message will appear, indicating that your performance manager will be notified of your submission. Click the **I acknowledge & agree** toggle, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Submit Objectives Confirmation.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/VunOYzxtkfRVIFPD-pm-create-blank-agreement-submit-objectives-confirmation.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee's **Performance Management** dashboard will indicate that they have successfully **submitted their objectives**. [![PM Employee Dashboard](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/W4pGCOFFbrXdpQ4o-screenshot-2026-02-24-143724.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Upon submitting their objectives, the employee's performance manager will receive the following **email** automatically: [![PM Manager Email Received](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/es2IFuhjkViiJ9de-screenshot-2026-02-24-144252.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If the manager navigates to their **Performance Management** dashboard, they will see that their next step is to complete the objective-setting phase. Next to the employee's performance summary, the manager can click **CONTINUE**. [![PM Manager Dashboard](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/phA1jiUHHT9jrMD7-screenshot-2026-02-24-143805.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The performance manager can **review** the performance agreement, make necessary edits, submit comments, initiate discussions, and adjust weights as needed. [![PM Manager Review PM Agreement](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HnON3w4zH7WmtqLV-screenshot-2026-02-24-143848.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Once they have finished their reviews, they can click **SUBMIT OBJECTIVES**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Submit Objectives.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/qDzUOrhsep7L6w3y-pm-create-blank-agreement-submit-objectives.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A confirmation message will appear, indicating that the objectives will be locked for editing. Click the **I acknowledge & agree** toggle, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Manager Submit Objectives Confirmation](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/UdMjgIrWQnAztzB1-screenshot-2026-02-24-143920.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee will then receive this **email**, indicating that the manager has approved their objectives: [![PM Objectives Approved by Manager - Employee Email](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/coS40sD3cyOENQeo-screenshot-2026-02-24-144322.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The manager's dashboard will show that the performance agreement has moved to the next phase, which is the **Check-In Phase**. [![Screenshot 2026-02-24 152047.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Aty6uBbJkqfFG4KM-screenshot-2026-02-24-152047.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Editing Your Objectives - The employee will be unable to **modify their objectives** unless the manager clicks **MODIFY OBJECTIVES** on their **Performance Management** dashboard. Hover over the three dots next to the employee's profile picture to access this menu. [![PM Manager to Modify Objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/OfJVWhz8077CgjWx-screenshot-2026-02-24-151650.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Modifying the objectives will **unapprove** them, allowing the employee to **modify** and resubmit them. The manager must then **reapprove** them. Click the **I acknowledge & agree** toggle, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Manager to Modify Objectives Approval Screen](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/A3C2qaKEnRf4P36f-screenshot-2026-02-24-151812.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee will also receive an **email** notifying them that their performance manager has modified the objective settings. [![PM Modify Objectives Employee's Email.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/VpY4rcLryMgJqMJC-pm-modify-objectives-employees-email.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Viewing or Printing the Performance Agreement - If you would like to view or print the performance agreement, hover over the three dots next to the employee's profile picture to access this menu. Click **VIEW/PRINT**. [![PM Manager to Modify Objectives](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/OfJVWhz8077CgjWx-screenshot-2026-02-24-151650.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The performance agreement will open in a new tab. [![PM Agreement - View or Print.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/MTfg1Ofs87wxy8o8-pm-agreement-view-or-print.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The performance agreement can be exported to Excel as a spreadsheet by clicking **EXPORT**. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Export to Excel.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ABgalDuXidP1A6SI-pm-create-blank-agreement-export-to-excel.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Save** the document. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - View or Print - Export.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/gafzubP1g3B01FTD-pm-create-blank-agreement-view-or-print-export.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **Print** the document using the print dialogue. [![PM Create Blank Agreement - Print Agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/owOEI7daWziAtQTs-pm-create-blank-agreement-eprint-agreement.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Next Steps The next phase of the performance management process has started: the **Check-In Phase**. Your performance manager may contact you to discuss your performance during a check-in. Use this time wisely and ensure check-ins happen regularly. For more information, proceed to the next part of this chapter. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Check-In Phase [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)[![PM Phases Step 3.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/hsZbeJgl056saQDi-pm-phases-step-3.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/CohWXeeT08DADD0B-pm-phases-step-2.png) ### The Check-In Phase Explained Once performance objectives have been submitted and approved, the **Check-In Phase** will start. This is an integral part of the performance management process, as it provides time for employees to work on achieving the objectives in their performance agreements, while managers can monitor their progress and provide feedback. The **Performance Management** module's check-in functionality works best when paired with one-on-one discussions between employees and managers. By digitally recording content from check-ins, employees have a reference point, and managers can efficiently track the employee's progress. However, check-ins in the **Performance Management** module are not mandatory and can be disabled. Remember, a performance management process is not one-size-fits-all; it is imperative that employees and managers discuss how they will approach it. ### Activating Check-Ins - As an administrator or a person with access, navigate to the **Performance Management** module. [![PM Performance Management Dashboard for Managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ZYk8MrHJqLYBR1w1-pm-performance-management-dashboard-for-managers.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click on the **Setup and Configuration** menu. [![PM Setup and Configuration Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/O4sSn7Htk1P6u3t4-pm-setup-and-configuration-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click on **Product Setup**. [![PM Product Setup Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/IXhcNuEaTbzGgSkh-pm-product-setup-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click on the **Review Years** tab. [![PM Review Years Tab.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/BpeasT3cy70YzAp3-pm-review-years-tab.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click the **review year** to which the review setup is linked that you would like to activate check-ins for. [![PM List of Review Years on the System.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/R8I0rUoGsG9i8Dcz-pm-list-of-review-years-on-the-system.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **Details** screen of the review year will appear. Click **Review Setups** in the menu on the left. [![PM Details of Selected Review Year.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/vZkokjYqUMFafbVI-pm-details-of-selected-review-year.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click on the **review setup** you would like to activate check-ins for. [![PM Linked Review Setups to Review Year.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/MqqgmbKyZilM7lPv-pm-linked-review-setups-to-review-year.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **review periods** for the review setup will appear. Toggle the switch next to check-ins to activate or deactivate check-ins. [![PM Activate Check-Ins Setting.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/SfQbxb8AXpXvahBk-pm-activate-check-ins-setting.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **SAVE** when you are done. [![PM Edit Review Period's Settings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ggqeze9wTYflCkKD-pm-edit-review-periods-settings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Conducting a Check-In For our example, we will assume that Emily Collins, the performance manager, will kick off the check-in phase with her reportee, Christoph Sutherland. [![Emily Collins and Christoph Sutherland PM](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HVAk8S7UI9AmpcI3-chatgpt-image-feb-25-2026-07-24-59-am.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The manager should navigate to the **Performance Management** dashboard and find the employee's contract under the **My Team** tab. [![PM Performance Management Dashboard for Managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ZYk8MrHJqLYBR1w1-pm-performance-management-dashboard-for-managers.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **CHECK-IN**. [![PM Manager Check-In Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/gRUrxhAq4LDyBmOa-pm-manager-check-in-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee's performance agreement will open. At the top of the screen, the check-in statistics banner will provide the following information: [![PM Check-In Statistics Banner.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/3G2dKKtrs9k3jlla-pm-check-in-statistics-banner.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - - The number of objectives to discuss. - The number of objectives that were discussed during the last two weeks during a check-in. - The number of objectives that were discussed more than two weeks ago during a check-in. - The number of objectives for which no check-in has been done yet. ***The manager does not need to review all the objectives at each check-in. Select a few objectives and provide feedback, then select another set of objectives for the next check-in.*** - The **menu** on the left can be used for navigation. [![PM Check-In Left-hand Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/MsAkhSNrrqTwyZ9V-pm-check-in-left-hand-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The centre section contains all the **objectives** of the performance agreement, the date of the last review, and comments from the manager and the employee. [![PM Check-In Objectives Section.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/FACJ4UOKzyDTMbqb-pm-check-in-objectives-section.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To add a **comment** on an objective during a check-in, click on the desired KPI. [![PM Check-In Objectives to be Discussed.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/J6VAxgyp6MPWnzeZ-pm-check-in-objectives-to-be-discussed.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **check-in menu** will appear. Click to rate whether the employee is on track with this KPI, then record your comments. Once you have reviewed the feedback and you are satisfied, click **SAVE**. - Please note that the manager may record **private comments** for their own record-keeping, which will not be displayed to the employee. [![PM Check-In Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/YGZKD0sTWUHmGOGt-pm-check-in-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **message** will confirm that the comment has been successfully saved. [![PM Check-In Successful Comments.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/4pdYgtzCIFUzBsTU-pm-check-in-successful-comments.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If you would like to **edit** a previous check-in comment, click on the KPI where you have entered the comment. When the check-in screen appears, click **EDIT LAST COMMENT**. [![PM Check-In Edit Last Comment.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/X7eIiPt6qLzrYynD-pm-check-in-edit-last-comment.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Adjust your check-in comments as necessary, then click **SAVE**. [![PM Check-In Edit and Save Comment.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/FH9xH2eambNzFT0U-pm-check-in-edit-and-save-comment.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your **historical comments** will be displayed when you click on the KPI. [![PM Check-In Historical Comments.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/A26fd7Cx4k0wYsZd-pm-check-in-historical-comments.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Historical comments, the last check-in date, and the previous rating will display on the main check-ins screen. [![PM Check-In Main Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/e1I6XOx36Xb3X7ze-pm-check-in-main-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Reviewing a Check-In - From the employee's perspective, their **Performance Management** dashboard will notify them that their manager has conducted a check-in. The employee can click the **CHECK-IN** button to view their manager's comments. [![PM Check-Ins Employee Dashboard.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ixuFBYwlxkDbK8ni-pm-check-ins-employee-dashboard.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - When opening their performance agreement, the employee will see the check-in statistics banner, the navigation menu, and their objectives. [![PM Check-In Employee Check-In Main Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/6wwqWClHFAEyAtrD-pm-check-in-employee-check-in-main-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee can **review** their manager's comments and **add** their own comments to each objective. Click a KPI to open the check-in menu. [![PM Check-In Employee Check-In Menu.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/NiARY0cwP0o99WGs-pm-check-in-employee-check-in-menu.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Add your own comment, then click **SAVE**. Your comment will display on the main check-in screen. [![PM Communications Check-In Employee's Comments.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/unnhYQZYIjQft9yk-pm-communications-check-in-employees-comments.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To edit your comment on an objective, click the KPI and then click **EDIT LAST COMMENT**. [![PM Check-In Employee Check-In Edit Last Comment.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HhlGdXbOtggWTLK8-pm-check-in-employee-check-in-edit-last-comment.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Update your comment, then click **SAVE**. - Click **BACK TO DASHBOARD** to return to the **Performance Management** dashboard. [![PM Communications Check-In Employee's Comments.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/unnhYQZYIjQft9yk-pm-communications-check-in-employees-comments.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The number of check-ins will appear in the dashboard's **overall summary** section. [![PM Communications Check-In in Overall Summary.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/2U4hdJwIBrXY0tTp-pm-communications-check-in-in-overall-summary.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Check-In Notification Emails The system automatically sends the following emails for check-ins: [![PM Communications Check-In Emails.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/rQ1iZwPQhX9LbwmE-pm-communications-check-in-emails.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **For managers:** - A reminder email once the **start date of the check-ins has been reached**. [![PM Communications Check-In Phase Started.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/xIHT3r2jSYinkoWx-pm-communications-check-in-phase-started.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - **For managers and employees:** - A reminder email of the **check-in deadline**. - The date when this email will be sent can be configured at the same location where check-ins can be activated or deactivated. - Managers' emails will look like this: [![PM Communications Check-In Phase Deadline Managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Q5sRlfvlEfhUR5Uz-pm-communications-check-in-phase-deadline-managers.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - - - Employees' emails will look like this: [![PM Communications Check-In Phase Deadline Employees.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ZDrJ4TC6aY68W9Jl-pm-communications-check-in-phase-deadline-employees.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Next Steps The next phase of the performance management process is the **Ratings Phase**. For more information, proceed to the next part of this chapter. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Ratings Phase [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)[![PM Phases Step 4.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/LpTa4Q6nD0OEogrE-pm-phases-step-4.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/CohWXeeT08DADD0B-pm-phases-step-2.png) ### The Ratings Phase Explained The **Ratings Phase** of the performance management process focuses on evaluating the employee based on the objectives specified in their performance agreement. If the **dual participation** option is enabled in the review setup, both the employee and the manager will be involved in the rating process. However, if this option is disabled, only the manager will enter the details into the **Performance Management** module, while the employee will be able to review them. For our example, the following review setup settings have been enabled: [![PM Example Review Setup - Dual Participation.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Y7ZiFp01ZlC5W0N7-pm-example-review-setup-dual-participation.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) For our example, we will assume that Emily Collins, the performance manager, and her reportee, Christoph Sutherland, will complete the **Ratings Phase** together. [![Emily Collins and Christoph Sutherland PM](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HVAk8S7UI9AmpcI3-chatgpt-image-feb-25-2026-07-24-59-am.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) Please note: since the **dual participation** setting has been activated for our example, we will explain both the employee's and the manager's roles in the process. If this setting does not apply to your review setup, you may skip the sections explaining the employee's involvement. Moreover, Emily will be able to complete the manager rating and the final rating simultaneously. This means Emily will be able to view Christoph's comments for each objective while she is rating him, but not his self-rating score. ### Employee Self-Rating - The employee will start the **Ratings Phase** by completing their self-rating on each of their objectives. Navigate to the **Performance Management** dashboard, locate your performance agreement, and click the **RATE** button. [![PM Performance Management Dashboard for Managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ZYk8MrHJqLYBR1w1-pm-performance-management-dashboard-for-managers.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee's **performance agreement** will open. The left-hand menu may be used for navigation, and the objectives are listed in the centre. The summary banner at the top of the screen shows the person's average rating based on the weights for each KPI that has been rated. [![PM Ratings Start Employee's Self-Ratings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/SWgUQM4Xe57KBK2R-pm-ratings-start-employees-self-ratings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click here to start a **discussion** with your manager about a selected objective. [![PM Ratings Start Discussion.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/WKgyasGmeh4cqpVq-pm-ratings-start-discussion.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your manager will receive a message in their **system inbox**. [![PM Ratings Discussion with Manager.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HvfM2u3idJ2KlD4Y-pm-ratings-discussion-with-manager.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **RATE** to start rating an objective. [![PM Ratings Rate Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/PaPNBVAichyRAI87-pm-ratings-rate-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **ratings menu** will appear. Click on a rating for the KPI, and add a suitable comment. [![PM Ratings Employee Rate and Add Comment.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Jl579zQVlbAwtxAF-pm-ratings-employee-rate-and-add-comment.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Scrolling down will display the **historical comments** from the objective-setting and check-in phases. It can be useful to review these before submitting your KPI rating. [![PM Ratings Historical Comments from Check-Ins.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/4ZyLCNOfujpvnSkM-pm-ratings-historical-comments-from-check-ins.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If you are ready to submit your rating for this KPI, click **SAVE**. [![PM Ratings Employee Save Rated KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/PqQkNQIkPyghHnM2-pm-ratings-employee-save-rated-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your rating and comment will appear on the main ratings screen. [![PM Ratings Employee Rated KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/MnAk86jg4LnEueF9-pm-ratings-employee-rated-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - As you proceed through the self-rating process, your calculated **self-rating score** in the summary banner will change based on the KPI's weight in the performance agreement. [![PM Ratings Summary Changes.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Mep7i1qynlyRj5JR-pm-ratings-summary-changes.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To modify your rating for a particular objective, click **CHANGE**. [![PM Ratings Employee Change Rated KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/GyqQ8GQ37R5l9QoM-pm-ratings-employee-change-rated-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Update your comment or rating, then click **SAVE**. [![PM Ratings Employee Completed Rating and Comment.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HJ4UzklTq5nsB6Qm-pm-ratings-employee-completed-rating-and-comment.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - For KPIs using **interpolation**, type in the actual value. The system will automatically calculate the rating for this objective, based on the configured interpolation rating scale. [![PM Ratings Phase Interpolation Rating.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/LCfiYloXHNdKgqYm-pm-ratings-phase-interpolation-rating.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Once you have rated each objective, click **APPROVE PERSON SELF-RATING**. [![PM Ratings Phase Approve Self-Rating.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/dApWcVzz6Q8I69XF-pm-ratings-phase-approve-self-rating.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **warning message** will appear, notifying the employee that submitting the ratings will lock the agreement for editing and notify their manager. To proceed, click to **acknowledge and agree**, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Ratings Phase Employee Submit.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/OsRJENeOePDMQwyj-pm-ratings-phase-employee-submit.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If objectives in the agreement have **not been rated**, the employee will not be able to submit their ratings. Please review the performance agreement carefully, ensure each objective has been rated, and resubmit the self-ratings. [![PM Ratings Employee Skipped Objective Error Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/qtKDfHysA9lKokjH-pm-ratings-employee-skipped-objective-error-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **manager** will receive an automated **email** from the system notifying them to proceed with the **manager ratings**. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Email for Self-Ratings Submitted.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/dkCxWkSQapR5vapH-pm-ratings-phase-manager-email-for-self-ratings-submitted.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **employee's dashboard** will show that their performance agreement status is now completed. They can click **VIEW** to review their performance agreement as they wait for their manager to complete their ratings. [![PM Ratings Employee Dashboard Submitted Ratings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Pkt4blWAgE95GcgN-pm-ratings-employee-dashboard-submitted-ratings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Viewing the submitted performance agreement will show the rating and comment for each objective, as well as the employee's self-rating score. To modify self-ratings, click **MODIFY PERSON'S SELF-RATING**. [![PM Ratings Employee Dashboard Submitted Ratings View.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/hC2pkQ1MTTOW0SsZ-pm-ratings-employee-dashboard-submitted-ratings-view.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **warning message** will ask the employee to acknowledge and agree that their manager will be notified of these changes. To proceed, click to **acknowledge and agree**, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Ratings Employee Dashboard Submitted Ratings Modify.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/yPeCE03ynLOizEkE-pm-ratings-employee-dashboard-submitted-ratings-modify.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **manager** will receive an automated **email** from the system notifying them that the employee has **modified** their self-ratings. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Email for Self-Ratings Modified.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Y8ScoSOw2UCGhoXk-pm-ratings-phase-manager-email-for-self-ratings-modified.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Manager Rating and Final Rating - The manager should navigate to the **Performance Management** dashboard and find the employee's contract under the **My Team** tab. The performance agreement's status will show that the employee has submitted their self-rating, and the manager should proceed with the manager's rating. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Dashboard Start Ratings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/QKlUVPxqMz1af6DV-pm-ratings-phase-manager-dashboard-start-ratings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **RATE** next to the employee's performance agreement. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Dashboard Start Ratings Rate Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/r964C7BmyKwR7kRp-pm-ratings-phase-manager-dashboard-start-ratings-rate-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The employee's **performance agreement** will open. The left-hand menu may be used for navigation, and the objectives are listed in the centre. The summary banner at the top of the screen shows the person's average rating based on the weights for each KPI that has been rated. [![PM Ratings Start Manager and Final Ratings.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/A4Qq3yHLQFjLQS6z-pm-ratings-start-manager-and-final-ratings.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click here to start a **discussion** with your employee about a selected objective. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Discussion Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Hld82W3DKxvthFOj-pm-ratings-phase-manager-discussion-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Click **RATE** to start the manager's rating of an objective. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Rating Button.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Y4pAoHLVZ2fUJqo6-pm-ratings-phase-manager-rating-button.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **ratings menu** will appear. Since the manager's rating and the final rating will be completed simultaneously, you can select a value for each rating and then provide one overall comment. Managers can also make a private comment that will not be visible to the employee. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Ratings Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/HBkjd13wul88PNcX-pm-ratings-phase-manager-ratings-screen.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Scrolling down will display the **historical comments** from the objective-setting and check-in phases. It can be useful to review these before submitting your ratings. If you are ready to submit your rating for this KPI, click **SAVE**. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Historical Comments from Check-Ins.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/rUHLS3TG26uHyg7b-pm-ratings-phase-manager-historical-comments-from-check-ins.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Your ratings and comments will appear on the main ratings screen. As you proceed through the rating process, your calculated **manager rating** and **final rating** **scores** in the summary banner will change based on the KPI's weight in the performance agreement. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Summary Changes.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/B33MuOHwvbzYdiIH-pm-ratings-phase-manager-summary-changes.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - To modify your rating for a particular objective, click **CHANGE**. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Change Rated KPI.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/jKKF657vTawGYs60-pm-ratings-phase-manager-change-rated-kpi.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Update your comment or rating, then click **SAVE**. - For KPIs using **interpolation**, type in the actual value. The system will automatically calculate the rating for this objective, based on the configured interpolation rating scale. [![PM Ratings Phase Interpolation Rating.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/LCfiYloXHNdKgqYm-pm-ratings-phase-interpolation-rating.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Once you have rated each objective, click **APPROVE FINAL RATING**. [![PM Ratings Phase Approve Manager and Final Rating.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/RUpWyou2PVhe88h6-pm-ratings-phase-approve-manager-and-final-rating.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **warning message** will appear, notifying the manager that submitting the ratings will lock the agreement for editing. To proceed, click to **acknowledge and agree**, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Submit Ratings Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/SJ2HbOCn5FOS3XfQ-pm-ratings-phase-manager-submit-ratings-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - If you have omitted a rating for an objective, an **error message** will appear. Please review the performance agreement carefully and add the missing rating(s). [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Submit Ratings Skipped Objective Error Message.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/CrPvVUCjH7wAPGbK-pm-ratings-phase-manager-submit-ratings-skipped-objective-error-message.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **employee** will receive an automated **email** from the system notifying them that their manager has submitted their **final ratings**. [![PM Ratings Phase Manager Submitted Final Ratings Email.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/ET9SHJbvEgzt1poq-pm-ratings-phase-manager-submitted-final-ratings-email.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - The **manager's dashboard** will show that their employee's performance agreement status is now completed. They can hover over a specific review period to view the performance agreement. [![PM Ratings Phase Completed Phases.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/9f9WZ21FXUoZThey-pm-ratings-phase-completed-phases.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - Viewing the submitted performance agreement will show the rating and comment for each objective, as well as the three scores for this review period: - The employee's self-rating score, - The manager's rating, and - The final rating. - To modify the final ratings, click **MODIFY FINAL RATING**. [![PM Ratings Phase Completed Phases Final Rating.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/Zj8p7ZoWgP7yqAIy-pm-ratings-phase-completed-phases-final-rating.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) - A **warning message** will ask the manager to acknowledge and agree that the performance agreement's ratings will be unapproved. To proceed, click to **acknowledge and agree**, then click **SUBMIT**. [![PM Ratings Manager Submitted Ratings Modify.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/QlOMQweZk68c9ENK-pm-ratings-manager-submitted-ratings-modify.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) ### Ratings Notification Emails The system automatically sends the following emails for the **Ratings Phase**: [![PM Ratings Auto Emails 1.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/atMsQaZxBL1Pmjug-pm-ratings-auto-emails-1.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) **[![PM Ratings Auto Emails 2.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/gsSd0j9flFnhuZWQ-pm-ratings-auto-emails-2.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png)** ### Next Steps The first review period of the performance management cycle has been completed. If a second review period has been created for the review year, the next phase is the **Recontracting** phase. Navigate to the next section for more information. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Re-contracting Phase [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) The **Recontracting Phase** is similar to the objective-setting phase described earlier, with one key difference: a performance agreement has already been completed for the current performance year, and now a new one needs to be established. This guide assumes that you do not have an existing agreement for the current review period and that you want to create a new one. - Begin by navigating to the **Performance Management** dashboard. ![PM Dashboard (Employee).png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Q1hagynMO737QZsl-pm-dashboard-employee.png) - Click **START** to create a new performance agreement. ![PM Start creating a performance agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/UIHAMKbQP4PvM2DL-pm-start-creating-a-performance-agreement.png) - The **Performance Management** module allows **employees** to create a performance agreement in three ways. ![PM Create PM agreement options for employees.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Rx9o0GI3vWKD2g7r-pm-create-pm-agreement-options-for-employees.png) - **Managers** are offered an additional option to create a performance agreement for a reportee using a template from another team member. ![PM Create PM agreement options for managers.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/UBTyjUgcts7duwJB-pm-create-pm-agreement-options-for-managers.png) Click on the following tabs to expand the step-by-step instructions.
Create a blank agreement - Click **Create Blank** to start creating a performance agreement from the beginning. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/0Xwij9aR5vNCwfSS-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/w6NLqkBJ2abHvZGD-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank-start.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, showing the different sections, though it won't include any objectives at this stage. Adding objectives is covered in the next section. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Blank – Agreement Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/XDGzjO45wmi1ycMO-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-blank-agreement-screen.png)
Use a performance agreement template - Click **Copy From Template** to create a performance agreement based on a system template. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/QmMMiriSm9KdFtKR-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/zDSjduKEIdCRfXkx-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-start.png) - A list of the templates currently on the system will be shown. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – List.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Ypf07gaxhGAnFJHk-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-list.png) - - - Use the search bar to search for a template based on a job title or specific keywords. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Search Bar.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/AWqzvPY8QBQX9DrX-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-search-bar.png) - - - A **tick** will be displayed if the template's weights override the review setup's weights. A **cross** indicates that the review setup's weights will be used. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Use Template Weights.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/lMw8sukVaHJP4Swu-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-use-template-weights.png) - - - To ensure you select the correct template, you can preview it by clicking the icon. The preview will open in a new tab. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Preview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/gactQaNiLlF6DQ0v-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-preview.png) - Choose a template you would like to copy, then click **CREATE**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Create.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/T3kHzyO8dtSd2lvw-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-create.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, with the **Perspective**, **Key Performance Area**, and **Key Performance Indicator** fields filled in from the template. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Agreement Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/4Gj5Dz8khGbtc7Hd-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-agreement-screen.png)
Copy from a previous agreement - Click **Copy From Previous** to create a performance agreement based on an agreement from a previous performance cycle. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/anF1iUHhaHJVjDz8-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous – Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/Iiyt3xWZWiijd9P9-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous-start.png) - A list of the performance agreements from previous review periods will be shown. ![PM Recontracting Phase Copy From Previous.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/VG1XRUxKo6zrz1UT-pm-recontracting-phase-copy-from-previous.png) - - - To ensure you select the correct performance agreement, you can preview it by clicking the icon. The preview will open in a new tab. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Preview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/gactQaNiLlF6DQ0v-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-preview.png) - Select the performance agreement you would like to copy, then click **CREATE**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Previous – Create.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/6xRnAuPpmoZzY3Jf-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-previous-create.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, with the **Perspective**, **Key Performance Area**, and **Key Performance Indicator** fields filled in from the previous agreement. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Agreement Screen.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/4Gj5Dz8khGbtc7Hd-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-agreement-screen.png)
Copy an agreement from another employee (Managers only!) - Click **Copy From Another** to create a performance agreement based on another employee's agreement. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/eWEihZfNM6RP4prI-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another.png) - Click **START**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - Start.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/qVUVG72Qg6UUjDTs-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-start.png) - A list of the other employees in your team's performance agreements will be shown. These agreements are from the current and previous review periods. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - List.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/TRwGoBDBOVZUgWgt-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-list.png) - - - To ensure you select the correct performance agreement, you can preview it by clicking the icon. The preview will open in a new tab. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Template – Preview.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/gactQaNiLlF6DQ0v-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-template-preview.png) - Select the performance agreement you would like to copy, then click **CREATE**. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - Create.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/iJIGNnZ0kIx6GC42-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-create.png) - The performance agreement screen will display, with the **Perspective**, **Key Performance Area**, and **Key Performance Indicator** fields filled in from the other employee's performance agreement. ![PM Create PM agreement employees – Another - Agreement.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/qj3wwQ0CZJUy3ltJ-pm-create-pm-agreement-employees-another-agreement.png)
[![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Completing the Performance Cycle [![Signify Header.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/emW3hfMrZ1yIDMUv-signify-header.png) [![PM Phases Final Step.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/scaled-1680-/ssy8SeqngYqdCnoh-pm-phases-final-step.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-11/ssy8SeqngYqdCnoh-pm-phases-final-step.png) Once each phase for each review period has been completed, the overall summary of the performance agreement can be used to review the performance cycle: [![PM Completed Performance Cycle.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-02/GR6mNikTl9oZi4kg-pm-completed-performance-cycle.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/K5dWzta8nVzbzzH4-pm-performance-agreement-sections.png) This summary provides several important pieces of information: - The overall score for the first review period, which is calculated based on the employee's self-rating, the manager's rating, and the final rating. - The number of check-ins on objectives conducted in the first review period. - The overall score for the second review period, which is calculated based on the employee's self-rating, the manager's rating, and the final rating. - The number of check-ins on objectives conducted in the second review period. - The score for the review survey (if included). - The calculated overall final score, which is based on the weights of the review periods and the review survey. [![Signify Footer.png](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/scaled-1680-/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png)](https://signature.signifyhr.co.za/uploads/images/gallery/2025-02/ZOt8yZwhbiGx2d6U-signify-footer.png) # Chapter 5: Tips and Use Cases Implementing a performance management system is the first step, but ensuring its long-term success requires ongoing refinement and best practices. This chapter highlights strategies for aligning performance management with organisational goals, engaging employees in the process, and addressing common challenges. It also explains how to link performance outcomes to training and development plans. Drawing on real-world scenarios and expert insights, this chapter provides actionable tips to maximise the impact of your performance management efforts. You’ll leave with practical guidance to foster a high-performing, motivated workforce. Moreover, you’ll be equipped to unlock the full potential of the module and drive long-term results. # Creating Effective Performance Agreements # Conducting Constructive Check-Ins