As a start, test specifications have to be formulated. During this process, many
questions have to be answered. In this paragraph, we just mention a few of them.
What is the purpose of the test? Is it for classification, for mastery decisions or for
proficiency estimation? Is it a fixed- or a variable length test? Are there any contentor
other type of specifications that have to be met? Will the test be administered via
the web, or at specific testing locations? Will the test be administered continuously
or only during specific time slots? How many candidates will do the test? What
types of items will be used? Are there any groups of candidates with specific
needs that have to be accounted for? It generally takes quite some time to get a
complete picture of the operational test. However, it really pays off to invest time
and resources in designing the framework.