FAQ Categories

Software Simulations

What is a Software Simulation Assessment?
What types does Brainbench offer?
When are these assessments appropriate to use?
How long do these assessments take?
What do the results look like and how do I interpret them?
What versions are available?
How much customization is possible?
How do I access these assessments?

What is a Software Simulation Assessment?

A Software Simulation Assessment measures the candidate's ability to use a specific software package by having them perform specific tasks as if they were in the software package itself. Most software packages offer more than one way to accomplishing a specific task. Software simulations allow the candidate to accomplish the task they way they are most comfortable. This way, they can better demonstrate their ability.

The following is a sample screen from a Microsoft Excel 2003 Software Simulation Assessment. The question is at the bottom of the screen:

What types does Brainbench offer?

We offer about 25 different simulation assessments and are actively adding new titles. Most major software packages are covered. To view a complete list of Software Simulation Assessments, download the PDF version of our Assessment Catalog (350 KB).

When are these assessments appropriate to use?

Like knowledge, skill, and ability assessments, these software simulations are most appropriate when they represent a key skill used on the job and there is not adequate time to train the skill once the candidate begins work.

How long do these assessments take?

Also like our knowledge, skill, and ability assessments, each test comes in two versions, Standard and Express. Standard-length assessments are 40 questions long, while Express-length assessments are 16 questions long. The Standard version usually takes 45 minutes to administer. The Express version usually takes 15 minutes to administer.

What do the results look like and how do I interpret them?

Results for the Software Simulation assessments are similar to those for our knowledge skill and ability assessments. An overall score on a scale of 1-5 is provided, so is a percentile score on a scale of 1-100. Finally, individual strengths and weaknesses are listed. See the following example:

What versions are available?

Each test comes in two versions, Standard and Express. Standard-length assessments are 40 questions long, while Express-length assessments are 16 questions long.

How much customization is possible?

Like our knowledge, skill, and ability assessments, significant customization is possible even with our Software Simulations. Please don't hesitate to contact us if we can customize a test to meet your specific needs.

How do I access these assessments?

All of the standard Software Simulation assessments are available inside your Corporate Account. Please see the Brainbench Assessment System FAQ for additional details on how to set up and access your Corporate Account.