Navigating Performance Improvement Plans at HP: Strategies for Enhanced Employee Development

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for HP Hewlett-Packard, commonly known as HP, offers a variety of health insurance plans through large national insurers including UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Anthem. The choice of provider may depend on the region and specific employee benefits plan that HP provides to its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly for consumers, particularly those enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. With some states expecting premium hikes exceeding 60%, many consumers may find their out-of-pocket costs increasing by over 75% due to the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and rising medical costs. Insurers have cited a combination of escalating healthcare expenses and the need for aggressive rate adjustments to maintain profitability as key factors behind these anticipated increases. As this scenario unfolds, it will be crucial for individuals to carefully assess their healthcare options for the coming year. Click here to learn more

In this article, we will discuss:

1. The rise and evolution of Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs)  within HP companies and their growing prevalence in corporate strategies.

2. Employee and industry perspectives on PIPs,  including their purpose, perception, and criticism as tools for improvement or legal safeguards.

3. Economic, legal, and technological factors influencing PIPs,  alongside alternative approaches and strategies for effectively managing them.

The Rise of PIPs in the Modern Professional Environment

In HP's current corporate landscape, Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) are becoming increasingly common as a tool for managing employee productivity. Originally designed to chart a course toward better performance, PIPs now play a crucial role in organizational strategies aimed at refining human resource management.

The Rise of PIPs in the Modern Professional Environment

The use of PIPs within HP companies has significantly increased in recent years. According to data from HR Acuity, a company that conducts annual audits on workplace issues, there has been a notable increase in the application of formal efficiency measures. In 2020, about 33.4 individuals per 1,000 employees faced documented performance issues. This figure rose to 43.6 per 1,000 in 2023, including PIPs, performance counseling, and other similar measures ( source: HR Acuity ). This trend highlights an increased reliance on structured mechanisms to address performance deficits.

Purpose and Perception of PIPs

The objective of PIPs is to provide a structured framework for assessing employee performance at HP companies. By setting specific, albeit challenging, targets over a determined period (generally 30 to 90 days), they aim to support employee progress. However, the effectiveness and reception of PIPs are under debate. Some employees and managers view these plans as a procedural step toward inevitable termination rather than a genuine opportunity for progress. Critics argue that PIPs often serve more as legal precautions for the company against employment disputes than as tools to encourage professional growth.

Industry Leaders' Perspectives

Anna Tavis, a seasoned human resources leader, criticizes PIPs as ineffective and misleading. Similarly, Howard Lerman, former CEO of Yext, contends that an immediate termination process is often more efficient for all parties involved than the prolonged process of a PIP. According to Larry Gadea, founder of Envoy, while only a small number of employees on PIPs succeed in meeting their targets, these plans are often initiated due to unclear expectations from management.

Economic and Technological Impacts

The growing reliance on PIPs is partly driven by economic pressures and technological advancements. In the era of artificial intelligence, the exceptional contribution of individuals is increasingly emphasized. The COVID-19 pandemic also had an impact, as many companies temporarily relaxed performance standards or suspended reviews during the crisis, only to face staffing challenges when normal operations resumed.

Legal and Historical Context

The legal environment surrounding employment at HP companies has also contributed to the use of PIPs. Christian Keeney, an attorney focusing on employment law, notes that PIPs can offer organizations a layer of legal defense against potential litigation. The history of PIPs can be traced back to periods of economic downturn, such as the recession of 1981, when performance-based management became more prevalent as companies sought to address their costs more strategically.

Employee Experiences with PIPs

Employees often perceive PIPs as plans for failure rather than opportunities for growth. For instance, Patrick McGah, a former researcher at Amazon, described his experience with the company's performance management as confusing and discouraging. This sentiment is echoed by many employees who feel demoralized by structured improvement plans.

Alternatives to Traditional PIPs

Some companies are exploring alternatives to the conventional PIP process. Michael Pizzorno, CEO of Salient Medical Solutions, advocates addressing performance concerns through ongoing dialogue rather than formalized plans. Steve Cadigan, a veteran in human resources, suggests offering employees the choice between a PIP and a severance package, which many prefer as a more dignified exit strategy.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Managing a PIP

For employees involved in a PIP at HP companies, strategies include actively engaging with outlined goals and seeking continuous feedback from colleagues. Some employees develop detailed response plans to address critiques and demonstrate their commitment to improvement, which can lead to a favorable resolution. Others consider alternative approaches, such as taking time off or exploring new job opportunities, to navigate the potential outcomes of a PIP.

In Conclusion

As the professional landscape evolves, the role of PIPs in managing employee performance at HP companies continues to change. Although designed as tools for progress and accountability, the perception and success of PIPs vary widely. Organizations and employees must approach these plans with thoughtful consideration, fostering genuine development and unbiased evaluation. Given the increasing reliance on PIPs, their implementation and the accompanying corporate culture are expected to continue evolving, influenced by broader economic, legal, and technological factors.