The nine-box is a performance assessment tool used to calibrate across a department or organization. The goal is to evaluate each employee’s current performance and their potential and then place them within one of the nine categories1,2.
| Performance | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Low performer with high potential | Moderate performer with high potential | High performer with high potential | |
| Potential | Low performer with moderate potential | Moderate performer with moderate potential | High performer with moderate potential |
| Low performer with low potential | Moderate performer with low potential | High performer with low potential |
1. The 9 box grid: How to use it to develop a successful team. https://www.personio.com/hr-lexicon/using-the-9-box-grid/.
2. What Is a 9-Box Talent Matrix? (And Why You Should Use It). https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/9-box-talent-matrix (2025).