(a) This subpart provides for the establishment in the Department of Homeland Security of at least one performance management system as authorized by 5 U.S.C. chapter 97.

(b) The performance management system established under this subpart, working in conjunction with the pay system established under subpart C of this part, is designed to promote and sustain a high-performance culture by incorporating the following features:

(1) Adherence to merit principles set forth in 5 U.S.C. 2301;

(2) A fair, credible, and transparent employee performance appraisal system;

(3) A link between elements of the pay system established in subpart C of this part, the employee performance appraisal system, and the Department's strategic plan;

(4) Employee involvement in the design and implementation of the system (as provided in §9701.105);

(5) Adequate training and retraining for supervisors, managers, and employees in the implementation and operation of the performance management system;

(6) Periodic performance feedback and dialogue among supervisors, managers, and employees throughout the appraisal period, with specific timetables for review;

(7) Effective safeguards so that the management of the system is fair and equitable and based on employee performance; and

(8) A means for ensuring that adequate resources are allocated for the design, implementation, and administration of the performance management system that supports the pay system established under subpart C of this part.