APPLIED PROBLEM SOLVING – POTENTIAL
Applied problem solving captures cognitive perception and concentration in the processing of tasks from the everyday work of (prospective) managers. As a hybrid test, POTENTIAL combines the advantages of performance tests and work samples: valid prediction of long-term professional success with high acceptance by the participants.
Hybrid testing with verbal, numerical and figural content
4 Modules
Time limited test
Time limit: 30 minutes
Processing time: approx. 35 minutes
Inhouse-test with supervision
Home-test without supervision
Languages:
Croatian, Dutch, English, Chinese, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Romanian, Serbian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish
other languages on request
Optimized for
desktop, tablet, smartphone
| Level |  |
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| Apprentices | |||
| Career starters |  |
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| Experienced | |
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| Management | |
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Persons with high results in this test can handle complex numerical and verbal problems correctly in a short period of time. It is easy for them to stay focused on the task, filtering out the relevant facts.
Instructions
After initial instructions and test tasks, the test is completed in a time-limited manner, with time limits per module. Depending on the module, the test is completed using the multiple-choice format (single selection from 4, 5 or 8 alternatives) or via free text fields. One task is shown per page, which can be solved by means of logical conclusions. It is possible to skip items, and to scroll forwards and backwards within the modules.
POTENTIAL is in liquid format: the tasks are drawn from a pool and arranged on the basis of increasing difficulty, whereby test difficulty and subject areas are kept constant for all participants.
In order to further increase the requirement reference, the number of modules used can depend on the target group (e.g. graduates vs. managers).
Theoretical background
As a so-called hybrid test, POTENTIAL combines the advantages of cognitive performance tests and work samples. This makes the procedure an objective, reliable and predictive test with a high level of activity relevance for high-potential employees and managers. The perceived relevance of the tasks (face validity) has a positive effect on the acceptance of the procedure among the relevant target groups. In doing so, POTENTIAL solves a key problem that has stood in the way of the widespread use of performance testing among demanding target groups for many years.
Four different modules record problem-solving competencies relevant for management and project manager tasks. The tasks are intelligence test tasks embedded in the working context that measure the ability to solve complex problems:
Optimal teams must be put together in the Staffing module, taking into account complex framework conditions, whereby graphic, verbal and numerical content are processed.
In the KPI module, further development must be inferred inductively from progress graphs. Classic series of numbers are presented here in the form of diagrams, so that figurative and numerical content, in particular, are part of this module.
In the Cost analysis module, central numerical characteristic values must be extracted from tables.
In the Budget planning module, purchases must be planned based on the consideration of time and financial restrictions – consequently, primarily verbal and numerical information processing is required here.
Given the content, POTENTIAL is aimed at all persons considered for activities where the ability to solve complex problems is required. The process is also often used to determine the competence for a management function at project or management level. Depending on the target position and time budget, individual or all modules can be used.
Psychometric properties
Reliability
α = .74
Construct validity
convergent:
.52 Abctract Problem-Solving (Matrix)
.63 Numerical Reasoning (PROGRESSION)
divergent:
.07 Emotional Stability
-.06 Extraversion
.08 Conscientiousness
.15 Openness
.07 Agreeableness (TAKE5)
Criterion validity
.30 Grades
.16 Study success
.11 Career success
Norm basis
N > 20,000