This document provides an overview of performance development (PD) and the performance development process. It discusses: - The history of PD, which began in ancient China and was later introduced in the US in the late 19th century. - The purposes of PD, which include evaluation, compensation/staffing decisions, development, and feedback. - Descriptors for rating employee performance on a scale, including expectations for different rating levels. - Guidance on communicating ratings to employees, including owning the rating, explaining the evaluation criteria, and focusing on development. - Key components to include in a PD plan such as objectives, development actions, and future focus.