Performance Net (pNet) is anything but “performance” oriented. Annual performance evaluations can be one of the most uncomfortable experiences for both the subordinate and manager. The County has done us no favors with the latest rendition of substandard off-the-shelf software in an attempt to make all things neutral and objective for a process that requires some subjectivity.
Local 1014 has filed a Grievance General In Character and Cease and Desist demand with the Department on the implementation of the pNet system to rate and document items related to Appraisals of Promotability. A Grievance General in Character is our legal way to object to anything in the rules, regulations, policies, procedures or MOU items affecting our members and provides a platform to negotiate changes or to seek arbitration.
Our Grievance General In Character (
click here to view) has already been received by the Department and we have already met once with the Department and County to discuss our issues. We have indicated to the Department that at a minimum we need to have clear and accurate instruction on what sections of the PE items of interest for the AP should be identified, documented, and attached. Furthermore, proper training for performance evaluations on pNet was non-existent in the 30-minute mandatory online training.
As we move this item forward with the Department, we will work to get some rules and guidelines accurate and consistent for all.
It is unfortunate that both our administration and the County as a whole are not in touch with the progressive positive use and methods of employee performance evaluation. They have settled for the least effective generic system that drags down the morale for both subordinates and managers alike. It would be nice if Admin would flat out REJECT the generic systems and opt to take our money and our efforts elsewhere with a system that fits Public Safety Sector Fire Fighters, Paramedics, and Fire Personnel.
As we work this through, we ask all subordinates to put forward their work, documented items for future promotion as indicated on the AP’s, and ask to have all included in your PE. We ask for managers to take time to work to include that information, to add it anywhere you can, to place comments in all sections, rate employees accurately and refuse to alter your marks and your comments. It takes a little effort to work through the 20 categories of comments and ratings, but with a little work, you can accomplish the rating appropriately.
