Govt Launches Digital PER System to Replace Paper Based Appraisals

The federal government has decided to introduce Digital Performance Evaluation Reports (PERs) as part of its efforts to digitize the existing performance appraisal system.

According to an office memorandum issued by the Establishment Division, the initiative will be implemented in phases, with the first phase covering all federal ministries and divisions.

Sources said the Digital PER system will replace the traditional annual performance reports by shifting the entire appraisal process from paper-based records to a centralized online platform. The move aims to standardize performance evaluations and resolve long-standing issues such as delays, missing files, and inconsistencies in performance documentation.

The Establishment Division has directed all ministries and divisions to nominate a focal person for the implementation of the Digital PER system. The nominated officer will coordinate with the Deputy Secretary (CP-V) and Director PD of the Establishment Division to ensure smooth execution of the system.

Under the assigned responsibilities, the focal person will oversee the creation of user IDs for PER administrators and Directors, PD or HR officials of cadre and ex-cadre administrations, in accordance with AGPE-2004 instructions. These user IDs will be used to operate and manage the online PER mechanism within each ministry and division.

The focal person will also coordinate data entry requirements, particularly for officers whose information is not currently available in the Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS). This process is intended to ensure that the performance records of all relevant officers are fully integrated into the digital platform.

Sources added that the digital system is expected to improve transparency and accountability by enabling real-time tracking of performance submissions and approvals. It is also aimed at reducing backlogs and supporting data-driven decisions related to promotions and training needs.

In addition, ministries and divisions have been instructed to submit a verified list of officers serving as Initiating, Reporting, and Countersigning Officers. The list must include names, CNIC numbers, designations along with BPS, email addresses, mobile numbers, and service or cadre details. The Establishment Division has also sought the name and contact details of the nominated focal person on a priority basis to facilitate the timely launch of the online PER system.