Performance appraisal is a crucial management tool for organizations to define, assess, and improve employee performance. The New Jersey Performance Assessment Review (PAR) program facilitates communication between managers, supervisors, and employees regarding performance and development planning. The State government workforce plays a vital role in delivering services and improving the lives of New Jersey residents. The PAR program aligns organizational goals with individual employee contributions.

The Civil Service Commission has utilized the electronic Performance Assessment Review (ePAR) system since 2014 within the PAR program. This digital system simplifies and streamlines processes through technology, providing employees, supervisors, and managers with convenient access to update and track performance.

The basic principles of the PAR program are described in the Civil Services rules and regulations; NJAC 4A:6-5.1 General provisions. Since the PAR information may impact other human resources decisions, it is essential to utilize it properly. Key elements of the PAR include:

• PAR applies to all employees in career service in the various state departments and agencies.
• Each organization selects a rating cycle that determines the due dates for the PAR.
• There are three stages in the rating cycle: job expectations, interim evaluation, and final evaluation.
• The ePAR system houses all PAR data.