Glossary: Key Terms in Zal.ai
Definitions of common terms and statuses
This glossary defines key terms you'll encounter in Zal.ai.
This article is relevant to: All roles
Review Cycle Phases
Appraisal Phase
The period when employees complete self assessments, peer reviews, and upward reviews. This feedback becomes the foundation for performance reviews.
Performance Review Phase (Manager Review Phase)
The period when Zal generates AI-powered draft reviews and managers edit and submit their evaluations.
Calibration Phase (HR Approval Phase)
The period when HR reviews submitted evaluations, participates in calibration sessions, and approves finalized reviews.
Results Phase (Acknowledgment Phase)
The final phase when managers share completed reviews with employees and employees acknowledge receipt.
Goal Statuses
Draft
A goal that has been created but not yet submitted for approval.
Pending Approval
A goal that has been submitted and is waiting for manager approval.
In Progress
An approved goal that the employee is actively working toward.
Accomplished
A goal that has been completed successfully.
Missed
A goal that was not achieved by its target date.
Review Statuses
Draft
The AI-generated review is ready for the manager to edit.
In Review
The manager has submitted; HR is reviewing for calibration.
Approved
HR has approved; the manager can now publish to the employee.
Published
The review has been shared with the employee.
Acknowledged
The employee has confirmed receipt of their review.
Other Terms
Brag Sheet
A personal record of accomplishments, wins, and recognition that employees maintain throughout the year.
SMART Goal
A goal that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Data Sources
The information used to generate AI performance review drafts, including self assessments, peer reviews, goals, feedback, and meeting notes.
Grading Scale
The rating system managers use when evaluating performance (e.g., "Below Expectations" to "Exceeds Expectations").