How to Test Before Going Live
Test your interviews before full launch to ensure a smooth candidate experience.
Why Pilot Testing Matters
Always test before launching!
Untested interviews can lead to:
- Technical issues frustrating candidates
- Unclear questions causing confusion
- Scoring problems affecting evaluations
- Poor candidate experience damaging your brand
The Four-Phase Approach
Phase 1: Internal Testing
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Run simulations | Complete 3-5 full test runs |
| Team testing | Have colleagues take the interview |
| Technical check | Verify all question types work |
| Timing check | Confirm duration is appropriate |
Checklist:
- All questions display correctly
- Timer works as expected
- Navigation is smooth
- Code editor functions properly (if applicable)
- Video/audio recording works
- Submission completes successfully
Phase 2: Small Group Pilot
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Select pilot group | Choose 5-10 real candidates |
| Monitor closely | Watch for technical issues in real-time |
| Gather feedback | Ask about their experience |
| Review results | Check score distribution and quality |
Selection criteria for pilot candidates:
- Mix of experience levels
- Different technical backgrounds
- Variety of time zones (if applicable)
- Candidates you can contact for feedback
Phase 3: Review and Adjust
| Area | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Completion rate | Are candidates finishing? |
| Score distribution | Is it reasonable? |
| Candidate feedback | Any common complaints? |
| Technical issues | Any recurring problems? |
Common adjustments:
- Shorten sections that take too long
- Clarify confusing questions
- Adjust difficulty level
- Fix technical issues
- Improve instructions
Phase 4: Full Launch
After successful pilot:
- Roll out to all candidates
- Continue monitoring completion rates
- Collect ongoing feedback
- Iterate based on data
Running Simulations
What to Check
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Timer | Countdown works, warnings appear |
| Navigation | Next/back buttons work |
| Questions | Text renders correctly |
| Attachments | Images load, files downloadable |
| Code Editor | Syntax highlighting, execution works |
| Video | Camera prompt appears, recording works |
| Submission | Final submit completes without errors |
Simulation Best Practices
- Complete the full interview - Take it from start to finish
- Test edge cases - Try unusual inputs
- Test on different devices - Desktop, laptop, different browsers
- Time yourself - Ensure duration is realistic
- Test as a real candidate would - Follow all instructions
Gathering Pilot Feedback
Questions to Ask
Technical Experience:
- Did you encounter any technical issues?
- How was the video/audio quality?
- Did the code editor work well? (if applicable)
Content Quality:
- Were the questions clear?
- Was the difficulty level appropriate?
- Was there enough time for each section?
Overall Experience:
- How would you rate the overall experience (1-10)?
- What would you improve?
- Would you recommend this interview process?
Feedback Collection Methods
- Post-interview survey (automated)
- Email follow-up
- Phone/video call for detailed feedback
- In-app feedback widget
Common Pilot Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| High abandonment rate | Shorten interview or add progress indicators |
| Low scores across the board | Criteria too strict - recalibrate |
| Technical complaints | Check browser requirements in communications |
| "Not enough time" | Extend section durations or reduce questions |
| Confusing questions | Rewrite for clarity, add examples |
Metrics to Track During Pilot
| Metric | Target | Red Flag |
|---|---|---|
| Completion rate | >70% | <50% |
| Average duration | Within 10% of expected | >20% over expected |
| Technical issue rate | <5% | >15% |
| Candidate satisfaction | >7/10 | <5/10 |