What term describes the process of continually assessing and improving in order to meet defined standards?

The term that describes the process of continually assessing and improving in order to meet defined standards is evaluation. Evaluation involves systematically reviewing performance, processes, and outcomes against established criteria or benchmarks. This ongoing assessment allows individuals and organizations to identify areas of strength as well as opportunities for enhancement, thus enabling them to make informed decisions about necessary adjustments to achieve or exceed the defined standards.

In the context of personal or organizational development, evaluation is crucial because it fosters a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. It is not merely a one-time assessment but rather an ongoing process that leads to sustained growth and effectiveness. By employing structured evaluation methods, individuals and teams can track progress over time, ensuring that they remain aligned with their goals and meet or surpass expectations.

The other options serve different purposes. Self-reflection is more about introspective thought and personal insight rather than a structured process of assessment. Feedback can be a component of evaluation but doesn’t encompass the broader, systematic approach necessary for continual improvement. Peer review, while it involves assessment from colleagues, typically focuses on specific outputs or projects rather than the overarching process of continual self-improvement.