Abstract: Effective performance appraisal systems are critical for organizational success, yet many companies struggle with outdated approaches that fail to engage employees or drive performance. This study investigates the effectiveness of contemporary performance management systems through comprehensive research involving 51 employees across multiple organizations.

The research identifies significant limitations in traditional annual appraisal systems, with only 32% of employees finding them valuable for professional growth. In contrast, continuous feedback models demonstrate superior outcomes, showing 28% higher engagement, 22% improved productivity, and 18% lower turnover rates. The study particularly highlights the effectiveness of 360-degree feedback systems, which improve managerial ratings by 35%, though requiring substantial training investment.

Key challenges include inadequate manager training (reported by 65% of participants), unclear evaluation criteria (42%), and weak connections between appraisals and development plans (only 38% effectiveness). Digital transformation emerges as a crucial factor, with AI-assisted analytics improving rating consistency by 33% and mobile platforms increasing participation by 55%.

The findings emphasize the importance of modernizing performance management through continuous feedback mechanisms, manager capability development, and technology integration. Organizations implementing these changes achieve measurable benefits, including 30% faster promotion cycles and stronger performance-goal alignment. This research provides actionable insights for developing appraisal systems that enhance both employee experience and organizational outcomes in today's evolving workplace.

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2025.12562