Review of Job evaluation methods

Abstract

Reviews the book, Job evaluation methods by Charles Walter Lytle (1946). This text is essentially a description, with illustrations, of the steps involved in the development of job evaluation plans, and of the various ways in which these steps may be accomplished. The author makes no pretense of introducing any new basic methods or techniques; rather, he has sought to present in a single package various fundamental and detailed prevailing practices. The book is a distinctly significant contribution toward this objective not only because of the comprehensive and careful treatment of methodology as such, but also because of the generally adequate analysis of various practices, the inclusion of words of warning on various aspects, and the prevailing emphasis on practical considerations. It is to be wished, however, that the thoroughness that is generally characteristic of the book had been extended to include appropriate treatment of certain of the more theoretical underpins of job evaluation which have significant practical implications. Aside from these blind spots, however, and an occasional more trivial transgression, the book can be considered as a distinctly effective ventilation system for the hazy atmosphere that characterizes some current thinking on job evaluation, and can be recommended for use as a uniquely adequate text or manual on job evaluation. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)