Positive Discipline (featured from the University of Oklahoma)

https://hr.ou.edu/managers/PositiveDiscipline.asp


Positive discipline is most successful when it assists an individual to become an effectively performing member of the University. Failing that, positive discipline enables the organization to fairly, and with substantial documentation, terminate the employment of employees who are unable and unwilling to improve.
The University's positive discipline system includes the following components:

• Communicating expectations and performance requirements
• Oral reminder
• Written reminder
• Disciplinary leave of absence
• Discharge

While positive discipline appears to be "progressive", managers should not interpret this guidance to require that each and every situation must follow the same progression. Some circumstances may require more severe discipline, up to and including discharge, while a progressive approach is appropriate for other situations.
Managers are encouraged to consult with Human Resources, Employee Relations when considering disciplining an employee or when preparing to meet with the employee to communicate a discipline decision.

Before you act, evaluate the record

The following may not apply in every situation, but it is appropriate for a manager to objectively evaluate the employee record by asking these or similar questions.
1. Has critical information been reduced to writing and placed into the employee’s file?
2. Is the employee’s misconduct or performance problems clearly described in a specific, factual manner?
3. Was the employee clearly informed of required standards of behavior and performance?
4. Does the record progress from mild, early warnings to more serious, comprehensive documents?
5. Was the employee given reasonable assistance and direction by management?
6. Has the employee had reasonable time and a fair opportunity to improve?  Generally, 30 to 90 days, depending on the situation.
7. Is the performance or conduct sufficiently persistent and serious to warrant the proposed disciplinary action?
8. Have procedural requirements been met?
9. Has the employee been given fair warning of the consequences of his continued conduct or performance? 
10. Is the planned discipline consistent with that taken in similar situations within the Department?  Within the campus? Within the University? Are there any extenuating circumstances that would warrant a different response?