Best employee performance management software 

TL;DR – HiBob tops our employee performance management software list thanks to its customization, seamless review cycles, and valuable team member insights. Explore 14 other performance review software below to find the right one for your team.

The best employee performance management software transforms how HR teams develop and engage their people. These platforms have evolved from basic annual review tools to comprehensive systems that support continuous feedback, goal setting, and career development. Modern solutions empower HR professionals to build stronger teams through meaningful performance conversations while reducing administrative burden.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top performance management solutions, their key features, and how to select the best one for your organization’s unique needs.

Best employee performance review software: A quick review 

We analyzed top performance platforms to help you match the right solution with your business goals, size, and structure. Whether you’re scaling globally, managing hybrid teams, or formalizing your review processes, here’s a snapshot of what each platform does best:

• Bob: Best for small and mid-size teams looking for customizable performance reviews and management tools within an all-in-one HR platform
• 15Five: Ideal for small to mid-sized teams focused on continuous feedback and lightweight performance check-ins
• ADP: Suited to established organizations already using ADP’s HCM tools and looking to integrate performance into payroll and compliance workflows
• BambooHR: A strong fit for small to mid-sized businesses looking for simple review tools baked into a broader HRIS
• Culture Amp: Great for companies investing in employee engagement and performance as a combined strategy
• Deel: Designed for global companies managing distributed teams across multiple countries and time zones
• Lattice: Good for growing teams that want goal alignment, development frameworks, and a continuous feedback loop
• Namely: Works well for mid-sized organizations seeking integrated performance tools within a core HR system
• PerformYard: Built for companies needing structured, customizable review processes with detailed reporting
• Personio: Ideal for small to mid-sized European companies wanting streamlined performance and HR tools in one system
• Rippling: Good fit for tech-forward teams that want performance tightly linked to IT, finance, and HR operations
• Sage HR: Works for smaller businesses needing straightforward reviews and basic goal tracking
• Trakstar: Suited to companies looking for robust review templates and structured feedback tools
• TriNet: A solid option for smaller companies outsourcing HR but wanting some control over performance tracking
• Workday: Good for enterprise organizations that need enterprise-grade capabilities and deep HR integrations

What is employee performance management and review software?

Employee performance management software is a digital solution that helps HR teams and managers streamline how they evaluate, develop, and recognize their people. These platforms centralize performance data, automate review cycles, and provide in depth analysis, helping transform performance management from a manual administrative task into a strategic driver of engagement and development.

With stronger engagement, companies see 23% higher profitability, lower turnover, and greater productivity.

Core functions of performance management software include:

• Goal setting and tracking: Align individual objectives with company goals and track progress in real time
• Performance review automation: Streamline the review process with customizable templates and automated workflows
• Feedback collection and analysis: Gather input from multiple sources, including peers, managers, and direct reports
• Development planning: Create personalized growth plans based on performance data and career aspirations
• Recognition tools: Celebrate achievements and reinforce positive behaviors through digital recognition

The evolution of these platforms reflects a fundamental shift in how organizations approach performance management. The focus has moved from rigid annual assessments to ongoing conversations that drive growth and empower HR leaders to support people more strategically. 

Top employee performance management software

When evaluating performance management platforms, HR leaders should prioritize solutions that combine robust functionality with an intuitive user experience. The following platforms represent leading market options we’ve evaluated based on capabilities, real-world customer feedback, and overall value.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect HiBob’s views.  Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.

Bob

HiBob’s performance management solution helps HR teams foster a culture of continuous feedback and development. Bob links individual growth to business goals, making performance management part of the broader employee experience. Managers can run productive 1-on-1s with shared agendas, track progress, and give real-time feedback. Dashboards and alerts highlight engagement trends, overdue reviews, and team achievements. With its intuitive design, Bob drives participation from managers and team members, turning performance management into a growth opportunity.

Performance management features:

• Performance management: Run structured review cycles, collect 360-degree feedback, and track performance trends to drive team growth
• Flexible review cycles: Create customized review processes that match your organization’s unique approach to performance
• 360-degree feedback: Collect comprehensive insights from managers, peers, direct reports, and self-evaluations
• Skills development: Identify skill gaps and create targeted development plans based on performance data
• Goal setting and tracking: Align individual and company-wide goals with real-time tracking and performance insights

Pros:

• The platform supports a wide range of customizable workflows, which helps tailor processes like onboarding, performance reviews, and time off tracking to fit company-specific needs. – verified review
• “I appreciate the transparency it brings to performance tracking and feedback, which helps in aligning personal development goals with team expectations.” – verified review
• “The navigation is intuitive, dashboards are customizable, and features like time-off management, interactive org charts, and performance reviews are very helpful in daily operations.” – verified review
• “I use it regularly for tasks like applying leaves, checking performance reviews, giving peer feedback, and doing one-on-one meetings—all of which are clearly organized and accessible.” – verified review

Cons:

• “The performance review module, while functional, could be more flexible in how it handles feedback cycles or review templates.” – verified review
• “There are moments where profile data feels a bit buried, like if I want to double-check a past performance review or find a feedback thread.” – verified review

Pricing: Contact HiBob team for a custom plan.

15Five

15Five focuses on performance management by supporting managers and allowing continuous feedback. The platform offers weekly check-ins and key results (OKRs) tracking. 15Five’s approach helps managers maintain regular communication with their teams while keeping everyone aligned on key priorities.

Features:

• Weekly check-ins: Keep conversations consistent with an easy format for manager–team member communication
• OKR tracking: Track progress by setting clear goals at both the individual and team levels
• Recognition opportunities: Celebrate wins with public praise tied to your company values
• Performance reviews: Run review cycles your way with customizable timing and aggregated feedback

Pros:

• “The performance review and goals features are great, but what really stands out is how it encourages meaningful conversations between managers and their teams.” – verified review
• “It’s more than just performance management software—it’s a true communication and alignment platform that has transformed the way our team connects, gives feedback, and grows.” – verified review

Cons:

• “With so many features and options available, the learning curve can be steep, and navigating between performance reviews, objectives, and check-ins isn’t always as intuitive as it could be.” – verified review
• “When managing multiple people and their 1:1’s it can get a bit confusing which one you are in, and what are the actions that are needed to follow up with.” – verified review

Pricing: 

• Engage: $4 per person per month
• Perform: $10 per person per month
• Total Platform: $16 per person per month

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the 15Five website as of the publication date.)

ADP

ADP offers performance management as part of its comprehensive HR and payroll platform. Their solution provides traditional performance review capabilities with the advantage of tight integration with compensation and other HR functions. ADP’s performance tools help organizations maintain compliance while providing structure to their performance processes.

Features:

• Automated reviews: Speed up performance cycles with a more efficient review process
• Goal management: Set and track objectives that align individuals and teams
• Compensation integration: Connect performance outcomes directly to compensation decisions
• Reporting and analytics: Unlock insights into performance trends and distribution

Pros:

• “Performance management is easy to use.” – verified review
• “Many of the people management functions are very beneficial and help streamline the overall workflow.” – verified review

Cons:

• “The wording when describing certain functions (like in performance management) can be confusing and misleading.” – verified review
• “I would like to see the program perform better in terms of the interface, even though it is very simple to understand and with new designs, it is not fast enough.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the ADP website as of the publication date.)

BambooHR

BambooHR, an all-in-one HR software, offers performance management tools designed to help smaller businesses streamline team member evaluations. Their performance evaluation tools integrate seamlessly with their core HRIS functionality, allowing people to set goals, collect feedback, and conduct performance assessments.

Features:

• Performance assessments: Monitor progress, challenges, and wins through regular check-ins
• 360-degree feedback: Gather multiple perspectives to get a fuller view of performance
• Goal tracking: Set and monitor goals with simple, built-in tools
• Flexible scheduling: Customize review cycles with ready-to-use templates and questions

Pros:

• “Everything works seamlessly, from employee records and time-off tracking to onboarding and performance management.” – verified review
• “Performance management became less frustrating resulting in more appraisal reviews being completed by deadline.” – verified review

Cons:

• “Based on our performance structure, there is not enough quantitative support/features for this. I still have to do this semi manually to maintain the company’s standard.” – verified review
• “The performance management piece still feels limited even with the 1:1; we desire better ways to communicate and celebrate staff and the surveys feel too restricted, not allowing us to be able to get to the types of questions we really want to ask.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the BambooHR website as of the publication date.)

Culture Amp

Culture Amp blends performance reviews and management with engagement insights to support ongoing development. The platform helps organizations create growth-focused processes that connect how people feel with how they perform.

Source

Features:

• Performance reviews: Customize review templates and tools with automated reminders to keep things on track
• Goal alignment: Link individual goals directly to broader company objectives
• Skills coaching: Support growth with development-focused feedback and coaching tools
• Engagement integration: Combine performance data with engagement insights for a fuller picture

Pros:

• “We can easily share survey results, track completion of goals and performance reviews, aggregate exit data, conduct 360-reviews for the entire org.” – verified review
• “I appreciate how Culture Amp makes it easy to track growth and manager conversations over time.” – verified review

Cons:

• “I wish it was easier to share 360 results with your own manager.” – verified review
• “Culture amp has the tendency to be overwhelming in its presentation of choices and options that you would rather skip using it just to do your 1-on-1.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Culture Amp website as of the publication date.)

Deel

Deel offers performance management tools specifically designed for global and distributed teams. The platform addresses the unique challenges of managing performance across different countries, time zones, and work arrangements. Deel’s approach emphasizes clear communication and documentation for remote and international team members.

Features:

• Global-friendly reviews: Deliver 360-degree feedback, manage OKRs, and calibrate reviews across teams
• Training programs: Provide structured tools for training, skill development, and career pathing
• Performance metrics tracking: Make objectives transparent and visible to all team members
• Talent strategies alignment: Align team member strategies closely with company goals

Pros:

• “Deel has a variety of features, provides visibility to the full organization and centralizes performance review.” – verified review
• “The platform is intuitive and provides all the tools I need.” – verified review

Cons:

• “The dashboard lacks deeper performance analytics for large teams.” – verified review
• “The document upload feature can be a bit buggy.” – verified review

Pricing:

• Engage: $20 per person per month
• Workforce Planning: $18 per person per month
• Compensation: $15 per person per month

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Deel website as of the publication date.)

Lattice

Lattice offers a comprehensive performance review management platform with a strong emphasis on goal alignment and continuous feedback. Their solution helps organizations connect individual performance to company objectives while facilitating ongoing development conversations. Lattice’s approach balances structured reviews with regular check-ins and real-time feedback.

Features:

• One-on-one management: Use structured agendas and conversation tools to guide meetings
• Continuous feedback: Give real-time recognition and actionable improvement suggestions
• Review cycles: Design flexible performance review processes that fit your team’s needs
• Growth plans: Build development-focused tools to support career progression

Pros:

• “I appreciate the structured approach it brings to goal setting, 1:1s, and feedback.” – verified review
• “The pulse surveys and engagement tools provide valuable insight into team sentiment.” – verified review

Cons:

• “The navigation can be overwhelming at first.” – verified review
• “Some customization options—such as adjusting review cycles or feedback templates—can be rigid unless managed centrally.” – verified review

Pricing:

• HRIS: $10 per person per month
• Talent management: $11 per person per month

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Lattice website as of the publication date.)

Namely

Namely provides performance management as part of its enhanced modules with the core HR platform. Their solution offers traditional review capabilities with the advantage of integration across the employee lifecycle. Namely’s approach emphasizes clear documentation and structured processes while maintaining flexibility for different organizational needs.

Features:

• Goal alignment and tracking: Schedule reminders, track participation, and send communications to keep goal tracking on point
• Feedback tools: Collect continuous, real-time feedback from peers and managers
• Performance history: Centralize records to monitor performance over time
• Competency mapping: Define, track, and align employee competencies with role expectations

Pros:

• “The platform’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate requesting time off, using the performance management tool, eSignature function, updating personal profile information and enrolling in benefits.” – verified review
• “The systems are very easy to use for both administrators and employees.” – verified review

Cons:

• “The downside about Namely is once past implementation it can take a day or two to resolve day to day issues.” – verified review
• “There is a workaround that can be offered within the performance portion of the tool, but it’s not easy or quick to set up and analytics is very limited.” – verified review

Pricing: Namely starts at $9 per person per month. Custom pricing is available for the other tiers. 

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Namely website as of the publication date.)

PerformYard

PerformYard is a specialized performance management platform focused on performance reviews, goals and feedback. Their solution allows organizations to implement virtually any performance process, from traditional annual reviews to continuous feedback approaches. PerformYard offers encryption, access controls, and compliance with industry standards to protect sensitive data.

Features:

• Reviews and check-ins: Conduct appraisals, 360 reviews, and quarterly check-ins to stay connected
• Goal management: Align people around their next career milestones
• Continuous feedback: Formalize ongoing and relevant feedback to boost performance
• Reporting and analytics: Track metrics to spot trends, rankings, and review insights

Pros:

• “Helps HR teams track performance trends and make data-driven decisions.” – verified review
• “It’s been really helpful for keeping track of our quarterly goals and 1:1s across the org.” – verified review

Cons:

• “PerformYard doesn’t include features for linking performances to compensation with the same platform.” – verified review
• “The paradigm and terminology takes a little getting used to.” – verified review

Pricing: Starts at $5-$10 per person per month, with additional bundles available for an additional cost

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the PerformYard website as of the publication date.)

Personio

Personio offers performance review management that grows with your team. Their solution provides structured review processes, a goal tracker and feedback tools that allow for ongoing support of team members. Personio’s approach emphasizes documentation and integration with other HR functions while maintaining ease of use.

Key features:

• Review checklists: Host structured performance reviews using customizable templates
• Performance signal: Develop and nurture individual growth potential
• Instant feedback: Gather real-time input from multiple sources
• Development framework: Create clear career paths from a structured framework

Pros:

• “The tool works well for performance reviews and surveys.” – verified review
• “It is easy to use, and the user interface is intuitive.” – verified review

Cons:

• “No way to have employees get notified that a feedback cycle is ready [and] no way for employees to enter their comments before our review.” – verified review
• “Users run into glitches or technical issues that can throw off their workflow.” – verified review

Pricing: Offers two plans, but does not list pricing details on their website

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Personio website as of the publication date.)

11. Rippling

Rippling includes performance management features like goal setting, continuous feedback, and automated reviews. These tools are part of its comprehensive workforce platform that spans HR, IT, and Finance.

Features:

• Review automation: Streamline workflows for smoother performance cycles
• Goal tracking: Set and monitor goals with easy-to-use tools
• Self evaluation: Enable team members to assess their own performance
• Manager assessments: Use structured formats to gather manager feedback
• System integration: Connect performance with compensation, learning, and other modules seamlessly

Pros:

• “It helps in setting the individual goal for a year and helps in reviewing them and rate the performance of an employee.” – verified review
• “Ease of use for employees.” – verified review

Cons:

• “It can be a bit overwhelming at first.” – verified review
• “I would love to see integrations with other software like Fellow so that I could integrate and track annual professional performance reviews, and the goals and notes that we input therein.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Rippling website as of the publication date.)

<<Compare Bob vs. Rippling – See which fits your business best>>

Sage HR

Sage HR offers performance management as part of its broader HR solution to help companies manage and engage their teams. Their platform provides structured performance review tools that help develop and retain talent. It integrates with other Sage products, such as Sage Intacct, Sage X3, Brightpearl by Sage, and more. 

Features:

• Performance reviews: Use straightforward templates and processes for easy reviews
• Goal management: Track progress and provide feedback in real time
• Feedback tools: Deliver actionable feedback with built-in templates
• Performance analysis: Create tailored growth plans that identify skills and ability gaps

Pros:

• “The customizable dashboards and real-time data insights make it easy to track performance and make informed decisions.” – verified review
• “Clean interface.” – verified review

Cons:

• “Be prepared to create your own reports from scratch.” – verified review
• “The entire user experience is lacking – poor design, non-intuitive, overly complicated.” – verified review

Pricing:

• Core HR: Starting at $5.50 per person per month
• Performance: Add-on module with additional cost

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Sage HR website as of the publication date.)

Trakstar

Trakstar by Mitratech offers a performance management solution that helps HR teams streamline performance reviews. Leaders can use Trakstar to assess individual and team progress. It also enables users to customize evaluation templates for different teams or departments.

Features:

• Performance reviews: Create reviews that align with organizational goals and objectives
• Goal setting and tracking: Make assessments and SMART goals for team members
• 360 review feedback: Get the complete picture of people from their peers
• Automated reminders: Send emails and integrate with communication tools to send reminders

Pros:

• “Recommended performance improvement statements make the program very beneficial.” – verified review
• “It offers a variety of metrics and it’s easy for us to evaluate performance.” – verified review

Cons:

• “There’s also no way to bulk delete things.” – verified review
• “Some of our employees could not find their self-reviews to complete.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Trakstar website as of the publication date.)

Trinet

Trinet includes performance management within its HR Plus offering. Their solution provides structured performance processes as part of a comprehensive HR outsourcing service. Trinet supports goal management, performance reviews, and meeting tools while connecting you directly to a specialized team of HR professionals and consultants through the HR expertise solution.

Key features:

• Manageable review cycles: Track progress and manage agendas to keep one-on-ones focused
• Goal setting: Keep your workforce on pace toward shared goals with easy-to-use tools
• Constructive feedback: Enable upward feedback to support manager growth
• One-on-one meetings: Facilitate meetings that keep managers and team members in sync

Pros:

• “Mostly the user-friendly interface of this software is quite useful as it provides the employee status and performance tracker through graphical representation.” – verified review
• “TriNet makes HR management much easier.” – verified review

Cons:

• “It takes multiple processing days to resolve issues once they’re submitted.” – verified review
• “The performance management system is not at all user friendly.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Trinet website as of the publication date.)

Workday

Workday provides a performance management system that helps small businesses streamline evaluations. HR teams can set performance goals, automate review cycles, and gather multi-source feedback to inform their assessment process. Workday also implements AI to identify growth opportunities.

Features:

• Performance enablement: Help managers and team members align on clear expectations
• Career development and planning: Map out career paths and unlock learning opportunities
• Skills and goal management: Track progress on goals at both individual and team levels
• Internal mobility: Support career growth with internal opportunities that match skills and experience

Pros:

• “We can assign tasks and manage goals, which are used by every employee.” – verified review
• “Very integrated process for performance reviews for quarterly implementation.” – verified review

Cons:

• “The cost is high for a small organization.” – verified review
• “The input field where we write about our performance review is not up to the mark.” – verified review

Pricing: Custom pricing

(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Workday website as of the publication date.)

How to choose the best employee performance review software

Choosing the right performance review software is about finding a tool that supports your people strategy, reflects your culture, and scales with your business. Here are some key considerations to help you make a confident, informed decision.

Determine your needs

Start by getting clear on what you want to achieve. Assess your current performance processes and pinpoint areas where a new platform could streamline workflows or drive better outcomes. Bring in voices from across your organization—HR, managers, and people leaders—to ensure the solution fits everyone’s needs.

Consider your team size, reporting structure, and the level of customization you’ll need. It’s also important to choose a system that aligns with your performance philosophy—whether you focus on formal cycles or ongoing feedback and coaching. Look for solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing HR tech and offer the specific features that support your way of working.

Consider the cost

Pricing varies, so it’s worth understanding the full picture—not just the monthly subscription fee. Look at implementation and training costs, integration requirements, and how pricing scales with your team.

Rather than focusing solely on cost, think about the potential return on investment. A platform that reduces admin time, increases engagement, and drives development may be worth more than a cheaper alternative that doesn’t deliver.

Evaluate different vendors 

Once you’ve defined your needs and budget, it’s time to explore the market. Look past the feature checklist and focus on how each solution fits your culture, workflows, and user preferences. Create a framework to compare platforms on both technical capabilities and user experience.

Explore: 

• Simple, intuitive interface
• Mobile-friendly design for flexible feedback
• Responsive customer support and onboarding guidance
• Fast, supportive implementation process
• Compliance and data security features
• Strong integration options with your existing systems

Ask for tailored demos that reflect your real use cases, and include end users in the evaluation process to surface adoption barriers early.

Prioritize scalability and ease of use

Even the most feature-rich software won’t succeed if your people don’t enjoy using it. Choose a platform that balances robust functionality with a clean, easy-to-navigate experience—and one that can grow alongside your business.

Look for:

• A familiar, frictionless interface
• Light training requirements
• Configurability to match your workflows
• Scalability to support future growth
• Ongoing improvements and feature updates

Find the right performance review software for your team

Performance management software should support better conversations—not replace them. The right platform makes it easier to recognize impact, plan growth, and keep your people engaged all year round.

If you’re looking for a solution that combines automation with a people-first experience, explore how Bob can help. Bob’s performance tools bring 360-degree feedback, goal tracking, and review cycles into one unified platform—helping managers drive meaningful engagement and growth across your organization.

Explore HiBob performance management