Performance appraisals assess an employee's performance in a systematic way to help with development. They measure factors like quality, quantity, skills, and more. Performance appraisals have evolved over time from early studies breaking down tasks to more modern methods like 360-degree feedback. Traditional methods focus on ratings and rankings but have limitations like bias, while newer approaches emphasize goals and behavioral observations. The objectives are to review, provide feedback, identify training needs, and help management and employees.