Which method of performance measurement is based on recorded incidents of behavior?

The critical incident method is a performance measurement technique that focuses on specific, notable events—often referred to as "critical incidents"—that highlight an individual's strong or weak performance in relation to a particular job or task. This method involves collecting detailed accounts of actual behavior, helping to provide a concrete basis for evaluating performance. By documenting incidents where an employee has either excelled or fallen short, managers can assess effectiveness in a clear, objective manner. This approach can be especially useful in performance reviews, as it allows for a more nuanced understanding of an employee's contributions, emphasizing real examples rather than general impressions.

Understanding this method is crucial in laboratory management, where precise performance measurement can directly impact the quality of work and patient outcomes. In contrast, Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales (BARS), while related, use predefined behavior descriptions to anchor ratings, rather than solely relying on incidents. Mixed standards scales aim to combine different forms of performance measurements, and peer comparison assesses performance relative to colleagues, which may not provide the same depth of insight as analyzing specific incidents.