Growing pains are a part of life. With significant changes comes inevitable adjustments. In the world of test-delivery, the shift to digital, while providing significant benefits, such as scalability and accessibility, also introduces a new set of challenges. These pain points extend beyond the technical glitches of test development to include security, user experience, and the integrity of the results.
The good news is that getting through these pain points is easy if you work with the right test delivery provider. Let’s take a closer look at some of the growing pains that organizations may experience and how Kryterion can help.
Security and Integrity
Perhaps the most significant concern for any organization conducting online testing is maintaining security and professional integrity. The remote, unsupervised nature of online exams can present an enticing invitation for misconduct. Common methods of cheating include:
- Using unauthorized resources: Test-takers might access a second computer, a smartphone, or physical notes to find answers.
- Collaboration: Candidates could communicate with others via messaging apps, social media, or even have a helper physically present in the room.
- Identity fraud: In some cases, a different person may take the test for the registered candidate.
That’s why it’s important to always use a trusted provider to provide proctoring services. However, using online proctoring can provide pain points of its own, including:
- Invasive nature: Many candidates find proctoring software that uses webcams and screen monitoring to be intrusive and anxiety-inducing, leading to a poor user experience.
- Technical requirements: Proctors often have strict technical requirements (e.g., specific hardware, a quiet room, a strong internet connection) that can exclude certain candidates or cause technical failures during the test.
- False flags: AI-based systems can sometimes flag innocent behavior as suspicious, leading to unnecessary investigations and appeals that burden administrators.
Organizations must find a balance between security and user experience. Test delivery must be secure and effective while, at the same time, not be overly intrusive. That’s why Kryterion’s test delivery is trusted by some of the world’s largest companies.
Technical and Infrastructure Hurdles
A test-taker’s experience is only as good as the technology that supports it. Organizations frequently struggle with a variety of technical pain points that can lead to frustration and inaccurate results, including:
- Lack of compatibility: The testing platform may not work on all operating systems, web browsers, or devices.
- Connectivity issues: A shaky internet connection can cause a candidate to lose their progress and be unable to complete the test within the allotted time.
- Server scalability: For large-scale testing events, a platform that can’t handle a high volume of simultaneous users will inevitably crash or slow down.
To mitigate these issues, organizations need to invest in a robust and scalable testing platform, such as Kryterion’s Webassessor. That way, they can make sure that the technology behind their tests will be up to the task.
User Experience and Accessibility
A seamless and user-friendly experience is crucial for accurate testing. If a test is confusing to navigate, it can lead to anxiety and poor performance, regardless of a candidate’s actual knowledge. Common user experience pain points include:
- Unclear instructions: Candidates may not understand what is being asked of them or how to submit their answers, leading to errors that have nothing to do with their actual ability.
- Poor navigation: A cluttered or confusing user interface can make it difficult for candidates to move between questions, review their answers, or monitor their time, adding unnecessary stress to the testing process.
- Accessibility barriers: Platforms that don’t adhere to accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) can unfairly disadvantage candidates with disabilities. This includes a lack of screen reader support, poor color contrast, and an inability to navigate with a keyboard.
That’s why Kryterion prioritizes human-centered design with a test platform that is intuitive and easy to use. Accessibility is also at the forefront of Kryterion’s test development and test design.
Pain points will always be part of growing. However, by using Kryterion’s test delivery platform, you can dull them quickly and reap benefits faster. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
About Kryterion
Kryterion Inc. is a global leader in innovative testing and credentialing solutions, helping organizations across various sectors develop and manage their assessments with our advanced test development platform and multi-modal delivery solutions. Established in 2001, Kryterion offers secure, integrated services and extensive support, empowering candidates to demonstrate skills and achieve success in world-class careers.