Performance evaluation in IST projects: a case study

Abstract

In order to be successful in an increasingly competitive business environment, organizations have to manage their human resources effectively and efficiently. To this end, the use of performance assessment approaches, not only at the individual level but also at the team level, is of utmost importance. In the particular case of information systems and technologies (IST) projects, there is not much research focused on the evaluation of human resources performance. Contributing to fill this gap, this article presents a case study, which took place in an academic setting, more specifically in the context of a postgraduate curricular unit, with the purpose of evaluating the feasibility of using various methods and techniques for performance assessment in the specific case of IST projects. Relevant results have emerged from this case study. For instance, this study allowed to conclude that a systematic multi-source performance evaluation, including continuous constructive feedback to project team members, results in improved attitudes and behaviours towards work, as well as enhanced trust in the assessment results. Additionally, there is strong evidence that the evaluation practices had a substantial impact on the success level of the IST projects under study.