Which approach compares an employee's performance against set output targets?

The approach that compares an employee's performance against set output targets is Management by Objectives (MBO). This method involves defining specific, measurable goals that employees are expected to achieve within a certain timeframe. By establishing clear objectives, both the employee and management can assess performance based on whether those objectives are met.

MBO focuses on results and the attainment of specific goals, making it an effective way to gauge performance against established output targets. It encourages employee participation in goal setting, which can lead to higher motivation and better alignment between individual and organizational objectives.

In contrast, the other methods mentioned do not specifically emphasize performance measurement based on achieving predefined targets. For example, Forced Distribution Method typically involves ranking employees relative to each other and categorizing them into performance tiers, rather than focusing on individual output targets. Performance Ranking Methods also compare individuals against one another rather than against specific objectives. The Checklist Method is primarily used to evaluate performance based on a predetermined list of criteria, which may not directly correlate with specific output targets.