About Academic Performance and Development Review (APDR)
Academic Performance and Development (APDR) is underpinned by the need to connect individual staff achievement and collective capacity with the strategic aspirations of the Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka – the University of Otago. The University seeks to support academic staff to achieve their best, and to succeed and grow in their careers, strengthening our shared capability.
To support this, the University expects that all academic staff will have a regular Academic Performance and Development Review (APDR). APDR is the formal, structured part of the ongoing effective relationship between a staff member and their reviewer.
As a staff member, you will have the opportunity to meet with your academic head or another reviewer to discuss your academic performance and development, and to record these discussions in the APDR System.
APDR discussions encompass four aspects:
- Reviewing performance, with feedback from a Reviewer
- Discussing career aspirations, capability and expectations
- Setting objectives
- Identifying support required in order to achieve objectives
Schedule of APDRs
Academic Performance and Development Review (APDR) is either annual or biennial, depending on your academic title. Find out your next APDR date and timeframe by checking the Schedule of Academic Performance and Development Reviews.
Guidelines for APDR
The APDR guidelines outline the University’s expecations of the way we run Academic Performance and Development Reviews. They set out the roles and responsibilities of staff members, reviewers and Academic Heads.
2025 APDR guidelines (PDF)
APDR System (Progress)
Academic Performance and Development Reviews are documented using the online application, Progress.
Academic Performance and Development Framework
From August to November 2025 the University is inviting feedback on a new Academic Performance Development Framework, Academic Performance Development Policy and Academic Performance and Development Review Guidelines.
You can read the consultation documents via:
Find out more about Academic Performance Development Framework:
Resources for staff and reviewers
Find resources to help you with Academic Performance and Development Review, such as guidance on setting objectives, and tips for reviewers.
Academic PDR resources for staff and reviewers
Salary progression
Normally, you will progress one step within your salary scale on 1 February following a successful APDR, according to the provisions of the relevant employment agreement and the Remuneration Policy. See also the Schedule of Academic Performance and Development Reviews (above).
Academic Promotion
As part of your Academic PDR you are encouraged to prepare for career advancement and promotion. If you would like to know more about planning an application for academic promotion to a higher salary band or academic title, see:
Key contacts
Human Resources
Email hr.academicreviews@otago.ac.nz
Tel +64 3 479 8266