There are several different tests that can be categorised as follows: If the aim of a test is to determine abilities such as concentration, logical conclusions or text comprehension, we refer to them as performance tests. Qualities such as willingness to cooperate, ambition or sensitivity are determined with the aid of personality questionnaires; specific professional knowledge is determined with the help of knowledge tests.

Online Assessment have some very clear benefits in comparison to traditional assessments: Firstly, no supervisors or invigilators are needed for Online Assessment. This means that ‘gut feeling’ plays no role, neither while taking the test nor during the assessment so Online Assessments are very objective. Secondly, Online Assessment can also predict with a relatively high degree of accuracy, how suitable a candidate is for a specific position.
Over and above this, there are also some very practical advantages:

• An applicant can complete the Online Assessment at any time from anywhere e.g. from their home. This saves travelling costs, and it also has the advantage that the test can be performed in the applicant’s own familiar, stress-free environment.
• The automated evaluation of results saves both time and money.
• From a company’s point of view, the relatively limited amount of time required is one of the main attractions, as it enables the inclusion of a large number of candidates in the pre-selection process.

Basically, any computer can be used. You simply need Internet access and a browser (e.g. Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox). It is best to use one of the newer browser versions because the very old versions are no longer supported. You need FlashPlayer for doing the actual test – this software is often required for gaming sites. (Google Chrome has flash player built it). Smartphones or tablets, however, cannot be used in all assessments.

You don’t need anything except a computer with a browser and Internet access. Other aids are generally not required. However, for some of the tests it is useful to have a calculator or perhaps pen and paper at hand. Some of the exercises, for example, are made up of various steps, the results of which you might want to jot down so as to make it easier to find the solution in the end. If any kind of aid is required or could be helpful, you will be informed accordingly in the instructions to the test.

You don’t need any special prior knowledge. However, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with online tests before tackling the Online Assessment.

A great advantage of online assessments is that you can do them whenever you want to. If you’re a night person, there is no reason why you shouldn’t do the test at night. It’s just important that you feel well and alert – don’t do the test when you e.g. come home from work or school and feel tired or after doing strenuous sport

Ensure that there are no interruptions or distractions while you are working on the tests. Once you have started the actual test, you can’t interrupt it and continue later – for this reason it is important that you ensure that you have both a quiet atmosphere and sufficient time to work through the test from beginning to end. Be sure to turn off your telephone and your cell phone, and inform your family or flatmates that you do not wish to be disturbed until you have finished the test.