While performance appraisals are considered important management tools in many countries, their purposes and
practices vary significantly between countries. Unfortunately, there is little empirical data on the specific
practices of appraisals across countries. The focus of this study is to empirically examine the current
purposes of performance appraisals in ten different countries and regions in Asia, North America, and Latin
America. The purposes of appraisals studied here include documentation, development, administrative (pay
and promotions), and subordinate expression. This paper also examines how the respondents believe the
purposes of appraisals should ideally be practiced. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
© 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.