> “Should I tell an employee that I entered them into Focus?” the question reads. The response: “Do not discuss Focus with employees. Instead, tell the employee that their performance is not meeting expectations, the specific areas where they need to improve, and offer feedback and support to help them improve.”

> “If the employee directly asks, ‘Am I in Focus?’ you should answer honestly,” the response continues. “However, remind the employee that the use of a specific product should not be their take-away from the conversation, as there are important performance gaps they must address.”

That doesn't sound like mandated secrecy. That sounds like they think the employee shouldn't care what the specific product is called.

That sounds like employees who are well-connected enough to know to even ask that question will get more information on their status than people who aren't as extroverted/social/charismatic/privileged.