Guidelines and Ethical Considerations for Assessment Center Operations

Abstract

In 1989, IPMA published the then current Guidelines and Ethical Considerations for Assessment Center Operations. The following document is an update of those guidelines. These guidelines were developed and endorsed by specialists in the use of assessment centers. The guidelines are a statement of the considerations believed to be most important for all users of the assessment center method. For instance, the use of job-related simulations is a core concept when using assessment centers. Job simulation exercises allow individuals to demonstrate their abilities in situations that are important on the job. As stressed in these guidelines, a procedure should not be represented as an assessment center unless it includes at least one, and usually several, job-related simulations that require the assessee to demonstrate a constructed response. Other important areas covered include considerations for assessor selection and training, using “competencies” as the target dimensions, validation issues and issues involving participant rights. If followed, these guidelines should maximize the benefits to be obtained by users of the assessment center method.