What Are Updates?
The Updates tool allows managers to set up a customized template sent to employees at a cadence of their choosing (weekly, biweekly, or monthly). Employees checking in with their manager weekly are often using the Updates tool as a monthly status report to inform the manager what they are working on and where they could use the help.
Why Use Updates?
It's an excellent tool for employees and managers that struggle to find time in person. We've also seen a lot of success for teams with remote employees, traveling employees, or new hires. Employees who check in with their manager monthly are generally using the Updates tool as a mini self-review. It's a way to look back at your performance over the past month and is generally more developmentally based.
For companies that do not have frequent reviews, there can be months when an employee does not receive formalized feedback, and the Updates tool is a great way to gather more feedback. Regardless of the cadence, Lattice will automate the process. Hence, it runs regularly, and managers will always have the opportunity to provide comments on updates, closing the loop with their employees.
What Can Admins Do With Updates?
As an admin, you'll view the Update's content and who is using the tool. Additionally, you can provide transparency to your senior leaders by turning on a feature that allows managers of managers to see the updates of their indirect reports. You also can turn on updates for all employees and select the default cadence & questions to drive accountability.