Forced Distribution of Responses: Survey Example

This is an example of how a questionnaire form can limit the number of a specific type or class of ratings that a participant can make. In this sample questionnaire, there are 4 competencies. Within each competency, there are 5 items (statements) that must be rated using a 4-point rating scale. However, the computer will only allow 3 ratings of "often" or "consistently" for any given competency. This means that the participant needs to select at least two of the Sometimes or "Does not demonstrate" ratings. Try it. Try to select more than 3 of the Often or Consistently ratings for a competency.

In the form below, you need to select a combination of ratings (some high and some low). You cannot select the highest rating for all of the items.

Employee Assessment

Core Values of our Company

Competency

Assessment

Problem Solving

Choose at least 1 response of Sometimes and at least 1 response of Often from this section. Do not select a combination of more than 3 Often or Consistently responses from this section.

Addressing issues as they arise using a variety of techniques. Identifies goals, solution paths, and expected outcomes. Calculates the cost/benefit analysis of various solutions.

Develops innovative solutions to problems

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Identifies potential responses to a problem

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Asks the "right" questions to size up or evaluate situations

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Actively seeks the root cause of a problem

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Evaluates alternative courses of action

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Some Questions to Consider

Teamwork

Choose at least 1 response of Sometimes and at least 1 response of Often from this section. Do not select a combination of more than 3 Often or Consistently responses from this section.

Works with others to accomplish goals.

Actively participates as a team member

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Creates a culture that fosters and values collaboration

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Fosters teamwork rather than individual competition.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Creates opportunities to learn with other team members

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Helps other managers in need of assistance

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Some Questions to Consider

Bias for Action

Choose at least 1 response of Sometimes and at least 1 response of Often from this section. Do not select a combination of more than 3 Often or Consistently responses from this section.

Taking ownership for and working towards goals within the allocated time and resources.

Follows-up and takes action when goals are not met to ensure better results in the future.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Set high standards in their performance

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Accomplishes goals on schedule and under budget.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Demonstrates a well-organized and timely approach to achieve desired results

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Seeks commitment from employees prior to assigning tasks.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Some Questions to Consider

Leadership

Choose at least 1 response of Sometimes and at least 1 response of Often from this section. Do not select a combination of more than 3 Often or Consistently responses from this section.

Achieves organizational objectives, within a dynamic environment. Balances efficiency, effectiveness and safety. Effectively utilizes limited resources. Establishes a shared vision for the department / organization.

Demonstrates leadership and courage in critical situations.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Able to influence others.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Maintains high ethical standards.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Gives direct, constructive, and actionable feedback.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Provides individual coaching for employees as needed.

Consistently demonstrates
Often demonstrates
Sometimes demonstrates
Does not demonstrate

Some Questions to Consider