Postal Service Headquarters prescribes formal evaluation systems for a variety of purposes. A formal evaluation consists of defined standards of performance, instructions for establishing a measure of where an employee fits within the standards, and a form to record information.
Informal evaluation is based on the supervisor’s day–to–day observations and is characterized by the absence of forms and instructions. The supervisor should make use of available human resources and give personal encouragement and guidance as a part of his or her daily practice. These practices must be part of a continuous formal and informal process.
