Final answer:
Point plans differ from ranking and classification methods by employing a numerical scale for various job factors, allowing for a more objective assessment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Point plans represent a significant change from ranking and classification methods in that they use a numerical scale for factors. Unlike ranking methods, which often do not assign specific numerical values to job factors, point plans use a detailed point system to evaluate job positions. Each job factor is assigned a weight or points that reflect its relative importance, and then each job is scored against these factors. The resulting scores are used to compare jobs quantitatively, which enables a more objective assessment than non-quantitative ranking methods. This numerical scale is central to point plan systems and underlies their ability to provide a more nuanced evaluation of job roles.