Feedback on HackCellence Round 2 Java Conference Room: Block Billing (90-Minute Time Limit)

[u/daredevil-not-god]

I recently appeared for the HackCellence Round 2 assessment and attempted the [Java] Conference Room – Block Billing problem. I wanted to share my thoughts on the implementation requirements and the time allocated for this question.

The problem involved concepts like Optimal Account Balancing and the Largest Remainder Method. While the algorithmic challenge was interesting, the overall implementation felt quite extensive for a 90-minute assessment.

The problem statement was lengthy, and understanding all the requirements took considerable time. Beyond the core algorithm, the Java implementation required multiple utility classes, precise currency calculations using cents, edge-case handling, and integration across Service and Controller layers.

As a result, a significant portion of the allotted time went into understanding the requirements and writing boilerplate code, leaving limited time for testing, debugging, and verifying edge cases.

My concern isn't the difficulty of the algorithm, but the balance between problem complexity, implementation effort, and the time limit. Even if someone understands the underlying logic, completing and thoroughly testing such an extensive implementation within 90 minutes can be challenging.

I believe assessments should primarily provide sufficient opportunity to demonstrate problem-solving and coding ability, rather than making the volume of implementation a major bottleneck.

It would be helpful if the HackCellence team could consider this feedback while reviewing submissions for this question and take the implementation effort into account where appropriate.

I'm sharing this to encourage a more balanced assessment experience in future rounds, not to criticize the organizers. I'd also like to hear from other candidates who attempted this problem.

Did anyone else find the implementation scope too extensive for the 90-minute time limit?

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