After three tries with this process, I've decided that "never" is too soon:
1x Take-home test didn't even get read (this was the nail in the coffin)
1x The interview failed because the salary wasn't competitive (should have asked beforehand about the salary, but didn't have the option; lesson learned)
1x Got an in person interview which led to an offer which was later rescinded (the trip was nice, so I'm not complaining)
Employers in this industry are just not responsible enough to even read through hours worth of work by prospective employees, so while a good idea on paper, the take-home test is a horrible idea in practice. Never again, indeed.
1x Take-home test didn't even get read (this was the nail in the coffin) 1x The interview failed because the salary wasn't competitive (should have asked beforehand about the salary, but didn't have the option; lesson learned) 1x Got an in person interview which led to an offer which was later rescinded (the trip was nice, so I'm not complaining)
Employers in this industry are just not responsible enough to even read through hours worth of work by prospective employees, so while a good idea on paper, the take-home test is a horrible idea in practice. Never again, indeed.