Why Item Naming Matters in RM Compare: Best Practice for Session Creators

By Mark House

When setting up an RM Compare session, there’s one detail that’s easy to overlook—but it can make all the difference: how you name your items. Whether you’re running a small pilot or a large-scale assessment, clear and consistent item naming is essential for smooth judging, accurate reporting, and a hassle-free experience for everyone involved.

Why Is Item Naming So Important?

1. Reporting and Data Clarity

Every RM Compare session generates reports and exports. If your items are named ambiguously—think “IMG_001” or “Document1”—it’s hard to know what’s what when you’re analysing results or sharing findings with colleagues. Clear, descriptive names mean you can instantly identify each item, saving time and avoiding confusion.

2. Quality Assurance (QA) and Session Management

Before a session goes live, item names are your reference points for checking content, orientation, and ensuring no sensitive information slips through. Once a session starts, item names are locked in. If you spot a naming error after launch, you’ll need to withdraw and re-upload the item—a headache best avoided with good preparation.

3. Collaboration and Efficiency

If multiple people are working on a session, a standard naming convention keeps everyone on the same page. It’s much easier to discuss, review, and resolve issues when everyone knows exactly which item is being referenced.

What Should Session Creators Consider?

  • Clarity: Choose names that describe the item’s content or purpose, so anyone can understand what it is at a glance.
  • Consistency: Stick to a naming format (e.g., “StudentID_TaskType” or “YearGroup_Subject_SampleNumber”) for all items in the session.
  • Privacy: Never include personally identifiable information (PII) in item names. Protecting participant anonymity is a must.
  • Preparation: Finalise all names before launching the session—item names can’t be edited once the session is live.
  • Relevance: Make sure names reflect the item’s role in the assessment, making it easier to track and report on later.

Good Practice: How to Name Items in RM Compare

  • Use the “Change Item Name” Feature: Before starting your session, review and edit item names in the Items area. This is your last chance to ensure consistency and clarity.
  • Develop a Naming Convention: Decide on a format that works for your context. Examples include “Group_Task_Sample” or “Subject_Year_ItemNumber.”
  • Double-Check Before Launch: Make reviewing item names a key step in your QA checklist.
  • Keep It Clean: Avoid sensitive or inappropriate information, and never use names that could identify students or contributors.
  • Document and Share: Write down your naming convention and share it with your team, so everyone follows the same rules.
  • Use the Quality Assurance features

Example Table: Good vs. Bad Item Names

The Bottom Line

Item naming in RM Compare isn’t just an admin task—it’s the foundation for a successful session. By following these best practices, you’ll make judging easier, reporting clearer, and collaboration smoother. Take a few extra minutes to get your item names right before you launch. Your future self—and your team—will thank you.

Looking for more tips on running effective RM Compare sessions? Browse our full blog archive for expert advice, case studies, and the latest updates from the RM Compare team.