Performance Appraisals Go Online as Digital PERs Launched for Government Performance

The federal government has decided to introduce Digital Performance Evaluation Reports (PERs), marking a major step towards digitising the civil service appraisal system. The move will replace traditional paper based annual performance reports with a centralized online platform, aiming to improve transparency, efficiency and accountability across federal ministries.

According to an office memorandum issued by the Establishment Division, the Digital PER system will be rolled out in phases, with the first phase covering all federal ministries and divisions. The initiative is part of broader governance reforms designed to address long-standing issues such as delayed reports, missing files and inconsistent performance records.

How the Digital PER System Will Work

Under the new system, the entire appraisal process will shift online. Ministries and divisions have been directed to nominate a focal person who will coordinate with the Establishment Division for smooth implementation. These officers will oversee the creation of user IDs for PER administrators, HR officials and reporting authorities in line with AGPE-2004 instructions.

The focal person will also ensure data entry for officers whose details are not available in the Human Resource Management Information System, allowing complete integration of performance records into the digital platform.

Boost to Transparency and Accountability

Officials say the Digital PER system will enable real-time tracking of performance submissions and approvals, reduce administrative backlogs and support data-driven decisions for promotions and training. Ministries have also been instructed to submit verified details of initiating, reporting and countersigning officers to facilitate the timely launch of the system.

A senior official said the shift to digital appraisals would

“strengthen accountability and bring greater uniformity to performance evaluations across the federal government.”