Factor Structure of Two Different Developmental Assessment Center Rating Formats

Abstract

Construct validity of assessment center (AC) dimensions has long been scrutinized. Although ACs remain some of the best predictors of job performance, their construct validity repeatedly falls short. We examined construct validity of two rating formats within a developmental AC (DAC). Within-exercise ratings loaded onto their exercises, while the within-dimension rating factors represented multiple dimensions. Our findings suggest that dimensions within ACs exist, but AC designers must be aware of how to structure the rating process to enable the raters to accurately observe these dimensions. This is particularly important for DACs, where dimensions serve an important role.