ABSTRACT
A comprehensive overview of the assessment center (AC) method would be incomplete without an in-depth discussion of the rapidly changing technology that supports its infrastructure. Traditionally, the technology of assessment centers has involved paper-based materials, physical space, and the simultaneous physical presence of assessees, assessors, role players, and administrative staff. All of these people come together in a space large enough to accommodate many simulations occurring at once. Over the course of a day or more, assessees (and often assessors) rotate through exercises, while behind the scenes (and often into the evenings) assessors’ ratings are compiled and integrated, and feedback reports are prepared. Sometime thereafter, assessees receive face-to-face feedback. Whereas this traditional format is still in use today (especially within the public sector), information technology is being incorporated into AC operations in ways that not only aid effi ciency and lower costs, but also provide a media-rich experience for assessees. Such techniques allow for behavior to be elicited, recorded, and evaluated in innovative ways, and infl uence participants’ perceptions of the program and organization. Such technologies can also assist organizations in aligning and connecting various talent management (TM) functions.
