The online examination system has gained a lot of credibility and transparency due to the introduction of remote proctoring. Organisations and educational institutions around the world have realised the need to have a system to check instances of cheating and fraud during the course of an exam. Physical invigilators are not always a solution due to geographical or even time constraints. With candidates spread across different countries and time zones, this system makes the process of home-based exam-taking more valid and credible.

Some advantages for the candidate:

Freedom to take a test at home- Unlike computer-based test, online examinations allows students to appear for the exam from the convenience of their residence. They may be able to take the test during an ‘exam window’ set up by the organisation.

1. Enhanced privacy- The use of exam software that allows remote proctoring makes it possible for the candidate to sit in a quiet environment without any external disturbances and distractions.

2. Convenient and easy to set up - As proctoring systems can be customised to suit the candidates’ requirements, they are not inconvenienced in any way. Further, it does not put any additional strain on the candidate while completing the test.

Some advantages for the organization:

1. Reduced admin burden - An online examination system that offers remote proctoring helps to scale up testing worldwide. Candidates or employees can take up the test from the comfort of their own homes without having to travel to the office or another official testing centre.

2. Increased frequency- Based on the nature of the exam, the test can be organised every week or fortnightly, according to the schedule set up by the department. There is complete flexibility in this regard.

3. Enhanced security- Remote proctoring exam software makes it impossible or at least extremely hard for candidates to use unfair means to cheat or gain an advantage. Thus, the results are more reliable, and every candidate is given a fair chance to succeed.

4. Instant verification- When tests need to be conducted in a home-based set-up, it helps to have a system that can quickly verify the identity of the candidate and keep a record of their photograph and ID details.

5. Superior customisation- Organisations can benefit from picking and choosing different proctoring features based on their exact need. For instance, a test may demand a room scan, browser lock or record screen feature, while others may require one to disable printing, voice detection or to switch on the webcam.

6. Live environment scanning- This feature is very beneficial as it provides real-time data to the organisation to help them keep a close eye on who is in the same room as the candidate during the test. Family members or friends who are assisting can be quickly spotted, and appropriate action can be taken.

With advances in exam software, remote proctoring is only set to grow in leaps and bounds. This will make testing scenarios more reliable and safer. Further, it will deter academic dishonesty and create a fair testing environment for all concerned. Remote proctoring also helps understand the behaviour of the test-taker, making it a great resource for future decision-making.