Many people use surveys as a primary way to conduct an assessment, mainly because of their ease and reliability in gathering information. People who put surveys together first assemble a list of questions derived from information they want answered. These questions usually come together based on the goals and objectives of a particular product or service, such as how well something worked, how it can improve and its likability. Those taking the survey then answer the questions based on either short answers or a numbered scale. Surveys can vary in length. For more advanced surveys, assessors can also conduct them online.
Portfolios as part of the assessment process work best for creative areas such as art, music and languages, in which people can apply what they learned over a given period of time and show how they use various techniques. Assessors can develop a list of questions (based on goals and objectives), then try to answer those questions based on what they see in a portfolio. Portfolios also show what an individual learns over a period of time and how he applies those skills to their job. They can also show how people learn from mistakes and how they adapted to certain areas of study.
Direct interviewing in executive assessment allows for face-to-face communication to determine how well a person performs in a job or even how customers like a product or service. Interviewers can develop a set list of questions to ask each person or deviate and ask follow-up questions to get better information. Interviewing also allows for people to analyze body language an take note of vocal tone, hand gestures, hesitation in speech and word choice. While using interviewing assessment takes time and sometimes extensive effort, those conducting the interview often get great in-depth results.
Learning journals allow people to reflect on a given topic or subject matter and write about anything they want about a product or service. Writers can write about what they like and don't like, what they find difficult or easy and concepts they don't understand. Learning journals also permit people to express their feelings and explain situations in-depth. Those conducting an assessment may choose to give the writers actual prompts, starting them out with certain topics they wish to cover. Assessors can use technology in the form of a blog to allow people to put their learning journals online so other people can see their thoughts and feelings.