Qwiz - Microsoft Office Systems Compentency Level Assessment

QWIZ

(Microsoft Office Systems Competency Level Assessment)

Updated 06/04/08

Qwiz is a skills testing software package that was recently installed by the Office of Human Resources. QWIZ replaces the standard typing test that had been routinely given for years to applicants for office support positions. QWIZ is different in that it can test for more than just one skill. It can, for example, test an individual’s proficiency in performing functions in a variety of Microsoft Office products such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access.

Some general facts and information about the QWIZ proficiency testing are outlined below. After reviewing this information, should you have further questions about the use of Qwiz, you may contact the Office of Human Resources at ext. 8-3300.

General Guidelines

During the screening process for external applicants, the Office of Human Resources will administer QWIZ testing only for those Office Support positions that are currently posted.

Applicants for posted positions who have taken a QWIZ test(s) during the previous twelve-month period will not be required to retake the test if their previous test results demonstrate the skill level required for the current, desired position.

An internal applicant applying for a position that is considered to be a lateral transfer need not take a QWIZ test for those functions that are being performed in the applicant’s current job description.

In those situations where changing positions may constitute a promotion, internal applicants will be subject to the same requirements as external candidates and, consequently, may be required to take the QWIZ testing necessary to demonstrate proficiency in the skills required for the higher level position.

QWIZ Questions

Why was QWIZ selected?

Since Princeton’s office systems have now become standardized, many managers have requested a tool that is more relevant for assessing the software skills and proficiencies of job applicants than just a typing test. QWIZ tests the most common applications used at Princeton. Many companies, including a number of temporary agencies that the University utilizes, have been using QWIZ successfully for years.

How is QWIZ different from a typing test?

Unlike a typing test, QWIZ simulates the most commonly used software packages in the Microsoft Office suite and is able to test those functions in a manner that is interactive, user friendly and comprehensive.

What specific skills does QWIZ test and measure?

Individual tests measure an applicant’s skill or level of proficiency in performing a variety of functions in selected software packages such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access. Applicants are tested at a basic, intermediate and advanced level.

Will typing tests be used at all?

Yes. Since there are positions that may require extensive text typing, QWIZ can also measure or assesses an applicant’s general typing skill.

How will the use of these tests relate to the recent restructuring of the Bi-Weekly B classification system?

The QWIZ definitions of proficiency levels (basic, intermediate, advanced) generally correspond to the competencies and skills identified in the technical proficiency section of the Biweekly B job documentation questionnaire.

Will an unsatisfactory test result have a negative impact on my current job at the University?

No. In fact QWIZ tests are a good way to identify developmental needs that you may have so that further training might help you to qualify for positions requiring additional or more advanced technical skills.

How long does it take to be tested?

The general typing test takes five minutes. Tests for Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access) averaged about twenty minutes for each module.

Will computer proficiency be included among position requirements when jobs are posted?

Yes. If positions require computer proficiency, the appropriate level, e.g., basic, intermediate, or advanced that is required for the specific software application will be included in the job posting.

If a job applicant is very strong in one of the required modules, but does not meet the required level in another, how will a determination be made?

Prior to posting a position, it is important for hiring managers to realistically assess what competency skill level is required to do a job vs those skills that would be nice to have. Clearly, an applicant may have difficulty becoming a candidate for a position if he/she is unable to demonstrate adequate proficiency in the performance of one or more essential functions that are required by a position’s description.

How is the QWIZ testing scored?

Scoring is done automatically by the system. QWIZ software has predefined skill levels correlated to tasks requiring basic, intermediate and advanced levels of proficiency for each Microsoft Office software package. A Skills Summary provides an overall score percentage, in addition to one for each tested level of proficiency.

On the Skills Summary sheet, tasks for which the test taker could not demonstrate proficiency are highlighted (in bold font), identifying the specific tasks and actions taken during the test. To illustrate this, a partial facsimile of a QWIZ scoring summary is provided below:

Windows 95 Skills Evaluation for Word 97

Name: James Doe
Applicant ID: 3224
Date: June 5, 2000
__________________________________

BASIC QUESTIONS

Select Text
Change Font Size
Save Document
Cut Text
Apply Style
Replace Text	Wrong Menu Command
Check Spelling
Align Text	Question Skipped by user
Change Margin	Wrong Menu Command

Note: The functional items appearing in regular font with no descriptive entry alongside were performed proficiently.

Will I be told the results of my test?

Yes. You will be told your tested level of proficiency by the recruiter. In addition, a detailed report can be provided to you as a skill development aid upon request.

Can I be tested without applying for a specific job?

While Human Resources is currently in the introduction phase, testing will be limited to job applicants. However, beginning in January 2001 any employee who wishes to be tested may call ext. 8-3300 to make an appointment to take the test.