{"id":88826,"date":"2022-12-20T12:48:00","date_gmt":"2022-12-20T10:48:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/factorialhr.com\/blog\/?p=88826"},"modified":"2026-03-23T15:28:49","modified_gmt":"2026-03-23T13:28:49","slug":"9-box-grid-explained","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/factorialhr.co.uk\/blog\/9-box-grid-explained\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Box Grid Explained [+ Free Template]"},"content":{"rendered":"

As remote and hybrid work environments grow, companies must adapt their performance management strategies. The traditional methods are being replaced with models like the 9-box grid, which focuses on outcomes<\/strong> and productivity<\/strong> rather than employee behavior. <\/span>According to Shoosmiths<\/a>, this shift means they should build a performance management policy based on productivity and outcomes<\/b> rather than employee behaviour as they would traditionally. As a result, talent management models like the<\/b> 9-box grid<\/b> are being used more often<\/strong> for talent mapping and measuring performance.<\/p>\n

McKinsey developed the 9 box model in the 1970s to help General Electric prioritise investments across its 150 business units. It has evolved since then into an <\/span>HR management tool used to measure two factors: <\/strong>performance and potential<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

But what is it exactly? <\/strong><\/em>In this guide, we will explain what the 9 box is and <\/span>how it can be used as part of your<\/b> performance management policy<\/b>. We will also discuss the pros and cons of conducting a 9-box assessment to help you decide if it is the right tool for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Unlock Better Talent Decisions with Our 9 Box Template<\/h4>\n \n

Visualise employee performance and potential to improve workforce planning. Get your free 9-box grid template now!<\/p>\n \n \n Download for free <\/a>\n <\/div>\n\n

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<\/a>What is a 9 Box Grid?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The 9 box grid, also known as the 9-box assessment model, <\/span>is a talent management model used to analyse and compare employee work performance and potential.<\/b> It helps managers identify future leaders and those with potential. The 9-box can also be used to reevaluate talent placement, improve succession planning, and identify performance issues and talent gaps. It facilitates employee growth and contributes to retention, engagement, and productivity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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But how?<\/span><\/p>\n

With the 9 box grid model, you <\/span>map your employees against two axes: current performance and future potential.<\/b> Where they fall on the grid will depend on their combined scores.<\/span> The higher the score, the more potential for growth.<\/b> This information can then be used to strategically develop employees for future positions within the company.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With these results you can determine:<\/span><\/p>\n