What sort of tests do you employ? A solid portfolio (one that includes process) paired with some targeted questions should hopefully be enough to shine a light on someone's design process and thinking.

I've seen shady companies employ tests as a way to get free work, and it rarely speaks to a solid design process. Many designers I know, including myself, have turned down these kind of tests during the interview process. However, I certainly sympathize with the bait-and-switch situation described in this article.

I ended up on freelancer.com and hired a cheap Indian guy who told me these exact words: “You have found the God in coding”.

The cringe is strong with this one.

Many thanks for your story. An interesting read to say the least!