SMT Launches Test Center Network

SMT is building on its eight years of experience delivering computer-based testing by launching our own test center network. Opening November 1, 2004 with at least 120 North American centers, SMT will add North American and International and sites will be added in 2005.

Working with CompUSA, Polar Bear Computer Training (Canada), and New Horizons, SMT’s network offers reliable, web-based testing; consistent, courteous service; and advanced technological capabilities, including computer-adaptive testing. Launched concurrently is SMT’s web-based testing reservation system that allows U.S. candidates real-time confirmations. SMT clients can allow candidates to make their own reservations, make reservations on behalf of clients, or contract with SMT to provide full candidate service.

SMT operates its testing network on a testing session basis with sessions 9 a.m. to noon, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Examinations longer than four hours are scheduled in back-to-back sessions. Specific testing centers hours will be scheduled within these parameters based on the current and forecast demand. SMT is using the session model because we believe it is distracting for candidates if new candidates are being brought into the testing room during their examinations.
Client examinations are transmitted to SMT Test Centers by secure socket layer (SSL) via secure, high speed lines (mostly T1 lines). Items are not cached at test station computers. Each item is transmitted individually to the test station as the candidate proceeds through an examination. Hence, all client examinations are maintained only on SMT’s secure server that is protected by a dual firewall. Candidate responses are recorded immediately on the SMT server. Examination status is automatically stored upon interruption due to power failure or other emergency permitting the candidate to resume at the point of interruption.
Exams are launched from a desktop shortcut that hides the testing URL and are displayed through a custom browser with all typical browser functions disabled. In addition to password protection at exam start-up, SMT’s testing application checks the testing station IP address to ensure it is a valid test center.

The SMT testing engine is fully customizable to client look and feel. The engine supports weighted scoring, branching and adaptive testing, graphics and other support materials. The engine also disables other browser functions, preventing candidates from accessing other internet sites during testing. All examinations are electronically clocked.
Examination results are stored in SMT’s secure database immediately following the end of each candidate’s examination. No exam or candidate information is ever stored on the computers in the testing center.
The SMT testing network is fully compliant with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA requests must be made in advance of testing. SMT coordinates ADA accommodations with the client, and then notifies the candidate. Such accommodations may include additional time, a reader-marker, special physical arrangements, etc. There is no additional cost for special accommodations unless it requires that a test center be closed to other candidates.

For more information, contact:
SMT Business Development
262 Chapman Rd, Suite 108
Newark, DE 19702
(302) 737-0796