Most "performance evaluation" or "performance development" programs in higher education today are little more than metrically-weak, bureaucratic programs aimed simply at establishing a legally-grounded employee record and a rough basis for merit increases. This article outlines the rationale and procedural framework for a talent development and management process referred to as the Total Performance Development System. Based on principles of performance optimization psychology and strategic organization management, TPDS maximizes the development and alignment of talent through a dynamic, goal-cascading process of performance planning, consultation, assessment, development and reinforcing/rewarding.