Re: Midrange Knowledge test

["Buck" <buck.calabro@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> I need some sort of written test to evaluate an applicant's knowledge of
the
> iSeries - some operations but mostly programming questions (CL, PF, LF,
> DSPF, PRTF, RPG/400 & RPGiv) are desired.

Here is my late reply, and one you probably do not want to hear.

A written test is a poor predictor of success of an applicant in the
workplace.  Not forgetting about the interpersonal skills, but for the
moment focussing on the technical aspect of the candidate.  I just finished
writing a test which was the finale to my RPG IV course here at work.  I
think it was a waste of time, except that it demonstrates the students were
able to navigate the manuals, type in examples and debug issues they came
across.  These are all good things, but they don't predict how well these
students will do in the everyday world.

My next attempt at this is going to be homework, individually assigned to
each student and personally graded.

My advice to screen candidates is to have them work on one of your existing
programs and compare the results to the same work done by one of your
current programmers.  Then have the candidate explain her reasons for
choosing the solution she used.  This will show how well the candidate fits
into your organisation from a technical perspective.  If she is very good
but doesn't philosophically 'fit', perhaps you should pass on her.  But
perhaps she is flexible, and may be able to work in the style you are
accustomed to.
  --buck