Created by Dr. Mary and Robert Meeker, the SOI assessment was originally designed for diagnosing learning difficulties and providing teachers with information that was relevant to how their teaching could meet the different needs of their students. In her work, Dr. Meeker began to see that certain intellectual abilities were linked to basic learning such as reading, arithmetic, higher math and creativity. Realizing that intellectual abilities could be taught, the SOI assessment became a much more meaningful and positive tool for investigating and individual's intellectual capabilities.

SOI is a three hour assessment which measures 26 different cognitive abilities including reading comprehension, arithmetic, problem solving, general comprehension, auditory and visual memory, judgement and creativity. Areas of intellect that are well developed, as well as areas that require strengthening are all indentified through this assessment.

The unique significance of this assessment lies in the fact that once learning abilities are measured, a specific training program can be designed to enhance those areas of intelligence that need to be developed or enhanced.

As individuals progress through their personalized training program their self-esteem improves, the courage to risk new learning is enhanced and they realize that they can and do learn successfully and confidently.