[Sigia-l] Testing Designer's Skills

[Pradyot Rai]

Hi there,

I want to bring discussion to this forum for evaluating IAs and Designers.
The most common means which I have seen is by interviewing the candidates,
reviewing their portfolios and checking references. Although all of these
have weanesses, I was always most skeptical about any means to test
IA/ID/UX skills with 'written tests'.

Is there any theory, framework to test designers' aptitude for IA/ID/UX
kind of job positions? I am looking for something which could be in a form
of written test, wrapped up in 30 mins. - 45 min.s timeframe for the
candidates. I am seeking resources which can also outline the means for
evaluating any such test. Any theory, research, postulate, or sample test
papers will help.

I know it is difficult question to expect straight answers, so I would
welcome opinions 'for' and 'against' the validity of any such tests, with
justifiable reasons.

You are most welcome to send your reply directly to maintain
confidentiality, if you wish.

Thanks,

Pradyot Rai
Product Development
eBusiness, Fannie Mae, DC