Natural Ability Explorer

The Natural Ability Explorer (NAE) is the gold standard in aptitude and ability testing.

Using unique, scientifically designed exercises, the NAE measures strategic parts of the brain to identify strengths, weaknesses, and natural talents related to problem-solving, science, mathematics, creativity, design, music, learning styles, and personal preferences. These insights provide critical information for everyday life and career success.

Natural Ability Explorer

The NAE stands apart from other assessments due to its depth, accuracy, and objectivity. Key differentiators include:

  • 1. Objective Measurement - The test uses time-pressured exercises, ensuring performance-based assessment rather than subjective self-reporting. Unlike popular personality tests such as MBTI, DISC, Big 5, and StrengthsFinder 2.0, the NAE measures true innate ability rather than perceived traits.
  • 2. Comprehensive and Complete - The NAE evaluates 19 distinct areas, including personality, functional aptitudes, learning channels, creative and musical abilities, time orientation, and idea generation. Unlike personality-focused tests (MBTI, DISC, Big 5), the NAE provides holistic insights by analyzing how different abilities interact and influence one another.
  • 3. Progressive Difficulty - Each exercise begins at a basic level and progressively increases in difficulty. The final 20-30% of tasks assess master-level innate ability, accurately distinguishing between gifted, average, and struggling performers. Other career tests like Morrisby, YouScience, and Career Avenues often measure only to mid-range levels, potentially misguiding users about their capabilities.
  • 4. Dynamic Results - NAE scores are benchmarked against a global database of users who have taken the exact same exercises. A person scoring in the 95th percentile is objectively ranked among the top 5% worldwide in that ability. Unlike other aptitude tests that simply count correct and incorrect answers, the NAE provides a continuum-based ranking for better accuracy.
  • 5. Balanced Scoring Interpretation - Every ability has both advantages and challenges depending on the role. A high score in a particular ability may be beneficial for some careers but challenging in others. Similarly, a low score may be advantageous in certain fields. The NAE ensures results are not labeled as "good" or "bad" but rather as insightful and informative to help users find their best-fit careers and lifestyles.

Why Invest in the NAE?

While the NAE requires a higher time and financial commitment, its unparalleled accuracy and comprehensive insights make it the preferred choice for:

  • Career Planning & Career Change
  • Life Transitions
  • Leadership Development
  • Self-Awareness & Personal Growth

What You Get with the NAE:

The NAE provides detailed, personalized reports and tools, including:

  • Personal Ability Report
  • Personal Career Exploration Report
  • Personal Learning Strategy Report
  • Personal Ability Feedback Video
  • Resume Builder
  • Life Decision-Making Mobile App

Transform Your Life with the NAE

This small investment in time and resources can change your life. By understanding your true and authentic self, you will:

  • Stop comparing yourself to others
  • Gain clarity about your future
  • Make confident, informed decisions
  • Learn when to say "yes" and when to say "no" to opportunities

Experience the Natural Ability Explorer today!

SELF-DISCOVERY PROCESS

Natural Ability Explorer (NAE) - History & Background

The Natural Ability Explorer (NAE) is rooted in the pioneering research of Johnson O'Connor, a Harvard-trained "human engineer." His groundbreaking work began in 1922 with General Electric (GE), where he was hired to explore whether employees could be matched to roles based on their natural abilities. This "human engineering" project led O'Connor to develop nine "work samples" designed to measure aptitudes critical for organizational needs. Testing over 3,000 employees, the results showed significant increases in both job satisfaction and productivity. Due to its success, the program expanded with additional "work samples" and was used by GE for several years.

In 1930, O'Connor established The Human Engineering Laboratory, a research center dedicated to studying human aptitudes and their impact on work and life. This organization later evolved into the Johnson O'Connor Research Foundation, a non-profit that now operates eleven research and testing centers across the United States.

O'Connor was among the first researchers to document that aptitudes are innate rather than acquired.

"The Individual who knows his own aptitudes, and their relative strengths, chooses more intelligently among the world's host of opportunities."
- Johnson O'Connor

Evolution into the Highlands Ability Battery (HAB)

In 1992, The Highlands Company, led by Bob McDonald, Ph.D., acquired the rights to digitize the O'Connor test, making it available outside research centers for the first time. Under the leadership of Lazar Emanuel, the company launched the Highlands Ability Battery (HAB) on CD in 1998. Over the following years, 300+ psychologists and counselors were trained and certified to administer and interpret the HAB across the U.S. By 2004, the HAB transitioned to an online platform, expanding global accessibility.

The Birth of Natural Ability Explorer (NAE)

In 2007, Robert & Tracy Wall, through their company Natural Ability, became certified with The Highlands Company, joining its development team and securing distribution rights for Australia and New Zealand. Over time, Natural Ability expanded its role and, more recently, acquired the technology rights to develop and host the HAB testing platform in Australia.

This led to the creation of the Natural Ability Explorer (NAE)-an evolution of the HAB designed to provide a deeper understanding of natural aptitudes and their role in career and personal development.

Today, the NAE is the foundation of multiple programs, including:

  • UniqlyMe Self-Awareness Program - a personal development tool.
  • UniqlyMe for Teens - a school-based program tailored for young learners.
  • Self-Aware Leader Program - a corporate leadership and team development initiative.

With its commitment to scientific research and practical application, the Natural Ability Explorer (NAE) continues to empower individuals and organizations by helping them understand and harness innate abilities for career success and personal growth.