[DataDisciple]

Its not just devs that get these assignments. I've seen startups use BD folks for interviews to research and structure potential deals as a "homework" assignment. They dangle a fancy job in hopes of generating leads, which they do, and then they never end up filling the position. Candidates put in weeks of work setting up an actual deal for a fictitious job.

I think these tactics are a lazy way to interview. If you truly want to build a great company, you need to spend significant time with someone to understand 1) can they do this job, and 2) are they a fit with the culture, and 3) are they passionate about the mission. There are no shortcuts, yet so many companies try to hack the process.

Everyone is busy and looking for ways to steal time but this seems to be one of the most short-sighted. The best companies don't look at labor as just an input.