SASS Test – Support and Administrative Selection System Prep

Data entry, answering phones, reading and writing emails, it all sounds a bit easy, doesn’t it? While people may feel that way, electric companies believe administrative jobs can be pretty challenging, even for tertiary-level graduates. Because of this, the Edison Electric Institute, otherwise known as EEI, conducted a research exercise to develop a pre-employment psychometric evaluation known as the Support and Administrative Selection System or SASS Test.

What Is the SASS Test?

The Edison Electric Institute sponsored a research initiative,  was initiated in the year 2000. The research was a result of the call for a new pre-employment screening system for job seekers applying for administrative and clerical roles. The SASS replaced the previously used aptitude test known as the Clerical Assessment Battery, which was deemed outdated as a result of the increased use of computers. The SASS Test was developed taking the advances in technology into consideration, which directly affects these positions.

The research incorporated over 20 EEI member companies and gathered input from more than 3000 personnel, including supervisory and administrative employees. The analysis resulted in the design and development of a group of three tests and simulation. The tests, which are very relevant to administrative jobs is used as a means of predicting the exam candidate’s likelihood of job success.

The SASS Test Batteries

The SASS test consists of four batteries detailed below:

BCAB – Basic Competency Assessment Battery

The BCAB, one of the SASS batteries, comprises of four parts:

• Classifying Test – The test assesses the candidate’s ability to sort data in categories utilizing a set of predefined rules. The candidate is presented with four lists, each containing 25 items. The candidate is given a 12-minute window to classify the data based on a given set of rules.
• Spelling and Grammar Test – The candidate’s language strengths are assessed in this test. The candidate is presented with a number of paragraphs containing 50 grammatical and spelling errors. The candidate’s responsibility is to make corrections to these errors. The candidate is given a 12-minute period to read the paragraphs and an additional eight minutes to attempt the questions.
• Basic Mathematics Test – This test is an assessment of the candidate’s aptitude for basic math. The exam consists of five math problems each followed by four questions (multiple-choice), which need to be completed in 18 minutes.
• Filing and Sorting Test – The test is an assessment of the candidate’s ability to sort items based on a given set of rules. The candidate is presented with six questions, each having different sorting rules. The candidate has six minutes to correctly sort all the items presented.

The final score is expressed as a percentage of correct answers. There is no negative marking.

BKSB – Basic Keyboard Skills Battery

The BKSB, one of the SASS batteries is comprised of two parts:

• Data Entry Test – The test assesses the candidate’s ability to accurately transcribe data as quickly as possible from paper into data collection software. The candidate is presented with three forms containing information which they need to input into fixed fields within the software. The candidate has three minutes to complete each form.
• Production Typing Test – The candidate’s typing accuracy and speed are assessed by transcribing a hardcopy document within seven minutes.

ACAB – Advanced Competency Assessment Batteries

The ACAB, one of the SASS batteries, comprises of two sections:

• Simulation Work Sample– This test is a computerized exam, which assesses the candidate’s ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively. The exam, as the name suggests, is a simulation, which thrusts the candidate into a role-playing scenario as an administrative assistant to six people. The simulation consists of four tasks that may be completed in any sequence, while still managing to answer phone calls as well as respond to emails as they come in. It is the candidate’s responsibility to prioritize the assignments and complete them to the best of their abilities. You will have a 30-minute introduction and practice session followed by your 30-minute scored simulation.
• Data Entry and Database Work Sample– This test comprises of three parts and assesses the candidate’s data entry skills and their competency in database operations. Parts I and II evaluate both the candidate’s accuracy and speed while Part III primarily focuses on accuracy.
  • Part I – The candidate is presented with a handwritten document from which the data needs to be transcribed into a purchase order on a computer. The format of the document is different from that of the form on the computer, so the correct data needs to be extrapolated. The candidate is expected to correctly enter the data from two forms in a window of eight minutes.
  • Part II – Just like Part I, the candidate is presented with a handwritten document to prepare a purchase order. The text, however, has missing information, which the candidate is expected to find by using the instructions provided. The candidate is expected to complete two forms in a 12-minute period.
  • Part III – The candidate is presented with two purchase orders, which must be examined for accuracy. The candidate is expected to make changes if necessary to complete or correct the purchase orders. This must be done in a time of eight minutes.

How to Pass the Edison Electric Institute Test?

The EEI SASS test is a series of tests, which cover a broad cross-section of skillsets relevant to support and administrative roles. The idea of spending over two hours in an assessment center can be very daunting, but there is no need to fear, we will share some exam tips here. First and foremost, candidates need to prepare for these exams, they are not a cakewalk, and if you are reading this, you are definitely on the right track. Source study guides to help get some insight into the exams as well as a general idea of how SASS test questions are worded.

SASS practice tests will also shed some light on the type of questions and simulations that could possibly appear on your exam. If the practice test provides you with answers, they could prove quite helpful as you are able to review both the questions and answers during your practice session, which would serve as a form of immediate feedback. The SASS testing method incorporates real-life scenarios, so simply reading questions will not be enough. If possible, work with a group of friends to organize simulations that you can use to practice.

Conclusion

Of all the EEI tests, the SASS test questions cover maybe the largest cross-section of material, all of which are relevant to the jobs for which it is prescribed. With so many sections, many of which are short and focuses on the candidate’s speed, preparation is of utmost importance. Utilize the many resources available to you, because no one has ever complained about being too prepared.

All the best with your job hunt!