This might be true if the assigned problem is trivial. If the assigned problem is difficult, I will be glad to know that all the other developers also did it.
Unfortunately, most companies use this as a pre-screen and assign an easy problem. There are exceptions, though. For example, ITA Software's hiring problem is the hardest part of their interview process. DeviantArt has done something similar, but I'm not sure if they are still doing it.
Unfortunately, most companies use this as a pre-screen and assign an easy problem. There are exceptions, though. For example, ITA Software's hiring problem is the hardest part of their interview process. DeviantArt has done something similar, but I'm not sure if they are still doing it.