System Design Scorecard

This video explains how candidates are evaluated and scored in system design interviews at large tech companies. We learn about the scorecard used to assess performance across five key parameters:

• Problem Scope: This includes listing and clarifying product requirements, discussing user interactions and expectations, and considering system scale.

• Technical Design: This involves making appropriate design choices, leveraging design patterns, and demonstrating knowledge of relevant technologies.

• Scalability: This encompasses designing a system that can handle increasing amounts of data and traffic.

• Reliability: This involves ensuring the system is fault-tolerant and can handle failures gracefully.

• Communication: This includes effectively conveying ideas, actively listening to the interviewer, and incorporating feedback.

Each parameter is scored from 0 to 5, with a total score ranging from 0 to 25. A higher score indicates a stronger candidate, and the acceptable score range varies depending on the target seniority level.

Gaurav Sen has conducted 1000s of system design interviews while working at Uber and building his YouTube channel to 500K+ subscribers. His platform InterviewReady combines video explainers, live Zoom classes, and an automated System Design Judge.