Employee Evaluation Criteria for Computer Skills

Today's technologically advanced offices require job applicants to possess a solid foundation of computer skills. Even businesses that have not traditionally sought computer-savvy employees, such as retail outlets, now seek applicants with knowledge of basic computer operations. When assessing a job applicant's computer skills, test them on a range of basic competencies, such as typing, operating system navigation, productivity software and web applications.

Typing Skills

Typing is arguably the most fundamental computer skill, and is necessary to complete most computer-oriented tasks. Administer a typing test to job applicants that encompasses the “qwerty” keyboard in addition to the 10-key number pad. Use a test that measures accuracy in addition to speed; accuracy can be a better indicator of a person's true skill level.

Applicants for collaborative office positions should type at 40 words-per-minute or higher, and should type at least 6,000 keys-per-hour on the number pad.

Operating System

Devote a portion of your computer skills assessment to the basic navigation of the Windows operating system—or the operating system used in your office.

Ensure that an employee understands how to launch applications, browse the file system, search for files and reboot the computer. Test the applicant's ability to read and comprehend error messages, and ability to read and follow instructions given by the operating system when installing programs or altering settings.

Office Productivity Software

The ability to use productivity software, such as Microsoft's Office suite, may be second in importance to typing skills. Learning the ins and outs of programs, such as Word and Excel, is time-consuming, and employees often gain a thorough understanding of specific programs only after years of experience. Make sure that job applicants have at least a basic understanding of how to operate the programs required in their specific jobs by administering a specialized test for each application.

Email And Internet

Test job applicants' fundamental understanding of the Internet and email, as well as their confidence in navigating the web. Employees should at least understand that the internet is a global network of computers connected via network infrastructure such as routers, hubs and cables. They should also understand that an email program sends and receives digital messages between computers via the internet. If an applicant does not understand Internet basics, he will likely be helpless and lost if anything goes wrong with their internet connection.

In addition to fundamental understanding, test to see if applicants know how to use a web browser and an email client. Measure the applicant's ability to search for information on the Internet without assistance, and to send, receive, store and locate email messages.



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