SIMEXAMS COMPUTER-BASED TEST (CBT) SOFTWARE: A COMPLETE OVERVIEW
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
SimExams provides a Computer-Based Test (CBT) software system that includes two main modules: the Author Module (for creating and managing exams) and the Exam Engine Module (for delivering exams to candidates). The software is designed for institutions (like schools, colleges) or certification bodies, enabling them to build, conduct, and analyze computer-based assessments.
KEY FEATURES
Author Module
Centralized database: Multiple authors can work on a shared question database.
Bulk import: Questions and candidate lists can be imported via Excel.
Exam configuration: Authors can set parameters such as number of questions, timer settings, randomization, and bookmarking.
Backup/restore support to safeguard exam data.
Exam Engine Module
Multiple modes:
Exam mode – simulates a real timed test.
Learn mode – allows candidates to view correct answers and flash cards.
Review mode – after completion, candidates can review their answers, see correct responses, and read detailed explanations if available.
Display options: Adjustable font sizes; day/night reading mode.
Question types supported: Single and multiple-answer multiple-choice; HTML and PDF formats.
Exam settings: Random or sequential question order; timer pause; bookmarking; notes per question.
REPORTING & ANALYTICS
Detailed scorecards: On exam completion, candidates receive a breakdown of their performance.
Time analysis: The software records how much time was spent on each question.
Category-wise scoring: Performance is shown per topic/subcategory.
Export options: Results, selected answers, correct answers, and explanations can be exported to PDF.
For online exams, advanced monitoring features are available: geolocation tracking and screen recording.
PLATFORMS & LICENSING
Supports multiple operating systems: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS.
Two editions:
Standard Edition single licence.
Enterprise Edition supports server-side hosting, custom branding, and bulk licenses.
Server requirements for Enterprise: PHP 7.4+, MySQL or MariaDB database.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES & ADVANTAGES
Drag-and-drop question support (in updated versions).
Offline-exam capability: Candidates can take exams without a constant internet connection.
Resumable exams: If interrupted (e.g., power failure), the candidate can resume from where they left off.
Multiple candidate profiles per device: Useful when several students share one computer.
Notes feature: Examinees can write notes on each question during exam.
SYSTEM & MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Compatible with Windows versions (7, 8, 10), and newer OSs.
Requires at least 50 MB of free disk space, 1 GHz CPU, 256 MB RAM, and resolution of 800×600.
STRENGTHS
Very flexible and configurable instructors can tailor exams heavily.
Robust authoring: Multiple users can collaborate on the question database.
Rich exam experience with review, learning, and interactive modes.
Strong reporting and analytics help in evaluating individual and group performance.
Offline mode and resumption support make it reliable for environments with unstable internet.
Cross-platform support broadens usability across devices.
LIMITATIONS
For large-scale use, self-hosting may require technical setup (server + database).
While many question types are supported, highly specialized question formats (e.g., simulations) may not be covered.
UI may feel dated compared to modern SaaS exam platforms.
Enterprise license cost may be high for small institutions.
Requires installation on client machines (for Exam Engine), which may complicate deployment.
USE CASES
Educational institutions conducting in-house assessments.
Certification bodies that want a vendor-agnostic, self-hosted CBT system.
Corporates doing internal knowledge checks or compliance training.
Training centers preparing students for certification exams.
CONCLUSION
SimExams’ Computer-Based Test Software is a mature, feature-rich system that supports both exam creation and exam delivery. Its two-module architecture (Author + Exam Engine), combined with offline capability, detailed reporting, and a variety of configurable exam options, makes it suitable for institutions that want control over their testing environment. While it may require some setup for enterprise-scale deployment, its flexibility and power make it a solid choice for serious assessment needs.
AUTHOR BIO
This article is written by a technology writer with experience in educational software and assessment systems. The author specialises in reviewing and explaining testing platforms and certification tools.
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