Live software proficiency testing
Give candidates a remote desktop (RDC) into a virtual Windows machine. Test how they navigate and perform live exercises on particular software applications.
What Hands-on Labs enables
Evaluate candidates on the exact tools they'll use on the job using virtual Windows machines.
Virtual Windows machines
Provide candidates with a secure RDC connection to a full Windows desktop tailored for the assessment.
Test any software
From Excel to proprietary ERPs, install the exact software you need and give them live exercises.
Task-based grading
Observe how candidates interact with the software and complete specific workflows.
Actionable playback
Review a full session recording to see how efficiently they navigate complex software environments.
Why live software testing matters
Resumes tell you someone knows Excel or Salesforce. Hands-on Labs show you exactly how well they navigate it. By providing a virtual Windows machine, you can run candidates through live exercises on the actual software your team relies on.
Built for real-world software roles
Evaluate candidates on the exact tools they'll be using in their day-to-day operations.
Finance & Operations
Ensure candidates can efficiently navigate complex Excel models or ERP systems like SAP and Oracle.
Sales & Marketing
Test proficiency in CRM tools like Salesforce or marketing automation platforms.
Specialized Roles
Provide a virtual machine to test candidates on proprietary or highly specialized software like AutoCAD or cybersecurity tools.
"With Hands-on Labs, we finally have a way to securely test candidates on our proprietary software in a controlled virtual environment. It saves us countless hours."
Questions, answered
How is Hands-on Labs different from the Code Editor?
While the Code Editor is perfect for single-file algorithm and data structure challenges, Hands-on Labs provides a full, multi-file sandboxed environment. Candidates can interact with databases, install dependencies, spin up servers, and debug legacy codebases.
Does it support Docker and custom environments?
Yes. You can provide a custom Docker image, meaning the candidate's environment perfectly mimics your actual production or development stack.
Can candidates use search engines or external docs?
Yes, by default. Real engineering involves reading documentation and searching for solutions. The Lab monitors tabs and copy/paste behavior, but allows normal developer workflows to gauge how they actually solve problems.
How is a project-based lab graded?
Labs are graded via automated integration and end-to-end tests. Instead of just checking function outputs, the platform can check if an API endpoint returns the correct JSON, or if a UI component renders correctly in the DOM.
Can I use my company's actual codebase for the test?
Yes! Many customers clone a simplified, sanitized slice of their actual legacy codebase and ask candidates to fix a bug or add a specific feature. It's the most predictive test you can run.