[header] How to develop a performance improvement plan [title] Document performance issues. [step] Before putting an employee on a performance improvement plan, you need specific proof that he or she is underperforming on the job. Use information that is objective, factual, and detailed in documenting problems with an employee's performance. 
It is generally considered best practice to use a consistent format in documentation of employee performance so that all employees are assessed fairly. Your documentation should include the following : [substeps] Employee information (name, title, id number if applicable, etc.