For example, both the evaluation of a resume and the use of a highly standardized achievement test must comply with applicable laws. Assessment tools used solely for career exploration or counseling are usually not held to the same legal standards. A personnel test or a procedure provides only part of the picture about a person. On the other hand, the personnel assessment process combines and evaluates all the information gathered about a person to make career or employment-related decisions. Figure 1 on page 1-3 highlights the relationship between assessment tools and the personnel assessment process.
People differ on many psychological and physical characteristics.
These characteristics are called constructs . For example, people skillful in verbal and mathematical reasoning are considered high on mental ability . Those who have little physical stamina and strength are labeled low on endurance and physical strength . The terms mental ability, endurance and physical strength are constructs. Constructs are used to identify personal characteristics and to sort people in terms of how much they possess of such characteristics.