Understanding Subjects and Responders

In a 360-degree feedback project, people are divided into two key roles: Subjects and Responders.

Understanding the difference between these roles is essential for setting up your project correctly.

What is a Subject?

A Subject is the individual receiving feedback.

Each Subject:

• Is evaluated using the questionnaire
• Has Responders assigned to provide feedback
• Receives a report based on collected responses
• Typically completes self-assessments

Subjects are the focus of the feedback process.

What is a Responder?

A Responder is a person who provides feedback about a Subject. Responders are selected based on their relationship to the Subject. Responders should be people who know the Subject well enough in a work setting to provide meaningful and constructive feedback. A thoughtful selection of Responders helps improve the quality, relevance, and credibility of the feedback collected.

Each Responder:

• Completes the questionnaire
• Evaluates one or more Subjects
• Contributes to the Subject’s report

Personal Identification (PID)

Once a person is assigned as a Responder for a Subject, the system generates a Personal Identification (PID). A PID is a unique identifier that links a specific Responder to a specific Subject. PIDs should be treated as confidential and not shared with others.

If a Responder is invited to assess multiple Subjects, they will receive a separate PID for each Subject assignment.

Responders typically receive their PID(s) through automated email notifications.

How Subjects and Responders Work Together

Each Subject is linked to a group of Responders:

• Manager
• Peers
• Direct reports

Each Responder completes the questionnaire, and their responses are combined within each responder category to create the Subject’s report.

Responder Categories

Responders are typically grouped into categories based on their relationship to the Subject. This allows to collect feedback from multiple perspectives and compare responses across different groups.

Common categories include :

• Manager
• Peer
• Direct report
• Other

The use of responder categories is a fundamental component of the 360-degree feedback process and helps ensure feedback is gathered from a variety of relevant perspectives.

Tips for Assigning Roles

• Ensure each Subject has an appropriate mix of Responders from relevant categories
• Select Responders who know the Subject well enough to provide meaningful feedback
• Clearly define responder categories before assigning Responders
• Avoid assigning individuals who have had limited interaction with the Subject
• Assign enough Responders within each category to help maintain confidentiality and anonymity
• Consider including Responders who can provide different perspectives on the Subject’s performance and behavior
• Review assignments carefully before launching the project

Thoughtful role assignment is one of the most important factors in obtaining high-quality and balanced 360-degree feedback.