I've been in HR for over a decade, and I keep seeing the same pattern: annual performance reviews that everyone dreads, yet we cling to them like a security blanket. The whole process eats up weeks of manager time, demotivates high performers when they get a 'meets expectations' label, and rarely changes actual behavior. Meanwhile, continuous feedback tools and project-based evaluations feel more honest and timely. So here's my question: should we finally retire the annual performance review for good?