Three Hundred Sixty Degree Feedback: program implementation in a local health department

Area of Science:

• Public Health Management
• Organizational Psychology
• Quality Improvement Science

Background:

• 360-degree feedback systems are widely used in business but less so in local public health.
• These systems are proven to improve employee morale, performance, culture, and organizational outcomes.
• Off-the-shelf solutions exist, but custom applications can better meet unique needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the successful customization and implementation of a 360-degree feedback system.
• To illustrate the integration of this system within a public health agency's quality improvement initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Customization of a 360-degree feedback tool tailored to the organization's specific requirements.
• Implementation of the customized system within the City of Milwaukee Health Department.
• Integration of the feedback process into existing total quality improvement efforts.

Main Results:

• Successful customization and implementation of the 360-degree feedback system.
• Demonstrated application within a local public health agency setting.
• Positive contribution to ongoing total quality improvement initiatives.

Conclusions:

• Customized 360-degree feedback systems are feasible and effective in local public health agencies.
• This approach can significantly contribute to enhancing organizational performance and outcomes.
• The experience at the City of Milwaukee Health Department serves as a model for other agencies.