Final answer:
The purpose of reviews and inspections in the context of software development is to improve software quality, not to assess individual performance or solely point out mistakes. These activities are collaborative and aim to catch errors early, contributing to a high-quality final product.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of reviews and inspections in software development is B) To improve software quality. These activities are essential in the software development lifecycle, as they help to identify and correct issues early in the process, preventing them from becoming larger problems down the line. Although performance appraisals are used to assess the performance of individuals and can be part of a comprehensive approach to employee development, such as 360-degree feedback appraisals, they are not specifically designed for the same purpose as software reviews and inspections.