There are two operational settings for the Test Tool: (1) for use in the classroom in order to proctor and take exams; (2) for use by instructors to generate, organize, and grade exams.

Until now, students at Cal Poly have been required to take exams using two primary methods: (1) Traditional exams written on paper; (2) Exams taken through PolyLearn. However, using Test-Tool in the classroom environment allows the instructor to automatically generate and grade exam questions of various types, including multiple choice, free response, and programming questions. In addition, it provides the test-takers with an interactive, electronic experience during exams, resulting in more efficient testing environments and reduced costs on paper and ink.

The Test-Tool is designed to be a replacement for PolyLearn's test-administering functionality. Test-Tool provides advanced exam generation capabilities, enhanced question grading capabilities, and improved test-taking and proctoring features that PolyLearn does not provide.

Test-Tool is integrated with Cal Poly's student account authentication system. Integrating with the already existing authentication system allows instructors to easily assign students' exam scores and does not require any set-up from the students perspective prior to taking the exams.