How the ZONE Framework was developed, and what it can and cannot tell you

Boundaries of the Framework

The Framework and ZONE Profile have not been clinically validated. They cannot:

• Diagnose any condition.
• Directly measure the nervous system.
• Identify causes of your experiences.
• Predict workplace outcomes.
• Determine a universally best accommodation.

Roles of lived experience, research and our model

Role of lived experience

The framework is informed by practical application, leadership experience, neurodiversity coaching, practitioner learning and David's lived experience as a late-diagnosed autistic professional.

Role of research

The framework uses an "evidence-informed" approach. This means the model draws on themes from the displayed research on neurodiversity at work, occupational burnout and autistic burnout, providing language for self-reflection rather than acting as a scientific instrument. The displayed research does not validate NeuroAdapt's proprietary Framework or the ZONE Profile.

Role of NeuroAdapt's own model

NeuroAdapt synthesises those influences into its own educational model for the workplace context of neurodivergent professionals.

Verified research sources

• ACAS (2023), Neurodiversity at work research report
• ACAS (2024), Understanding neurodiversity at work
• Arnold et al. (2023), Confirming the nature of autistic burnout
• Mantzalas et al. (2024), Measuring and validating autistic burnout
• Toward an understanding of occupational burnout among employees with autism (2023)