I recently interviewed for a developer position that did not include a formal interview. Instead I spent the day working with the company on a small task. Come the end of the day I was asked to describe the design/implementation of the solution a do a short code walkthrough.

As hiring processes go it was easily the most enjoyable and beneficial (from my perspective) that I have experienced. Not only did it provide me with an opportunity to prove my ability but it also gave me an insight into the company, their working environment, my potential colleagues and the work they do.

Obviously a day is a large time commitment but if the hiring company can obtain enough assurance from a CV/personal recommendation that a developer is capable then it's an extremely beneficial process for both parties.

Just a stupid idea. Get those applicants to write punch of functions which can be used on the development of the product. Give them specification of the function and they should be able to write it. Hire the one who's function is the best. xD