ObjectivEye

TNO (the Dutch Organisation for Applied Scientific Research) is always looking for ways to create societal impact through technology. One of the challenges TNO wanted to address was reducing bias in the recruitment process. Despite the best intentions, unconscious prejudice can still creep into candidate selection. This not only leads to overlooking talent, but also costs valuable time. Especially in a tight labour market, where diversity and inclusion are more important than ever, is this a real problem. That’s why TNO set out to develop an innovative, objective solution that truly helps make recruitment more efficient, fair, and inclusive.

Everyone is seen and given a fair chance
ObjectivEye was born as a start-up within TNO’s Tech Transfer program. It is an AI-driven recruitment platform that enables competency-based and anonymous applications. Candidates are assessed on their skills and not on age, gender, or background. With ObjectivEye, hiring managers gain access to smart tools: the platform assists in writing job descriptions, generating structured interview questions and objectively evaluating candidates. So, no more traditional CVs, but applicants answering questions about the competencies that really matter. This makes the selection process not only more efficient, but also fairer. ObjectivEye takes a step toward a more inclusive labour market where diversity and equality are the standard.

AI only sees someone’s competencies
Using Next.js, we developed an application with multiple components. The platform consists of an Applicant Interface for candidates and a Recruiter Interface for hiring managers. We integrated the ESCO database, a classification of skills, competences and occupations in the EU labour market, for objective competencies and we applied AI to generate job descriptions and interview questions. Based on the company’s needs, vacancies can be quickly created and published online. Interview questions for applicants are also generated with AI, while hiring managers retain full control to adjust them. The hiring manager invites the candidates whose answers best match the position. At this point, no resumes have been considered yet. Candidates are always informed that the recruitment process is handled through ObjectivEye.

Let's see if it really works
In 2025, the first pilot was launched with five ObjectivEye partners, including De Nederlandsche Bank and the Ministry. This partner published a vacancy that was created with ObjectivEye. The initial results were promising: significantly more candidates were selected based on skills, and the pool of applicants was more diverse. After receiving valuable feedback, we have been continuously optimising the product. Thanks to its AI technology and scientific foundation, ObjectivEye contributes to faster, fairer, and more efficient recruitment, paving the way for a more inclusive labour market.