LETTERS: KEY performance indicators (KPIs) are important tools to measure productivity of employees.
They can provide a clear picture to companies and employers of their employees' capabilities and achievements.
But an unfair set of KPIs can bring serious problems like stress, which will affect the organisation's productivity and reputation.
Unfair KPI could happen when the organisation or employer fails to consider employee age.
We cannot use the same KPI for all employees because it is unfair and may also lead to ill-treatment.
As such, it is vital for organisations and employers to draft their employees' KPI according to age.
For example, the KPI for the 18 to 39-year-old group may be different than those for the 40 to 59-year-old group due to experience and physical capabilities.
Failure on the part of the organisation or employer to prepare a balanced set of KPI for employees could result in an unconducive or hostile workplace.
It is important too to take into consideration labour laws like the Employment Act 1955, Industrial Relations Act 1967, and Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.
Employers must engage with employees before drafting their KPI.
Never draft them without getting the necessary information and feedback.
Have a discussion with the employees. This way, the employer will have a better idea and deeper understanding in all the activities, programmes and plans which they intend to carry and accomplish. Plus, that could also create a better workplace.
All these factors should be taken into account as starting this year, all civil servants will be assessed using the Demerit Performance Evaluation (Deep), according to Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.
In the Deep System, the evaluation will start at 100 points, which will be deducted if an officer fails to meet the stipulated objective.
The main point is, whatever the approach or mechanism to assess the workers and civil servants, the question of fairness is still the most important issue.
DR MUZAFFAR SYAH MALLOW
Associate professor, Faculty of Syariah & Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times