Learn English – “Regression” in a positive sense

I think it's worth pointing out that exploit doesn't always have a negative connotation, particularly in the context of exploit the benefits of... (or, exploit the advantages of...)

"Hardware support alone is not sufficient to exploit the benefits of multithreading. We believe that the performance benefits of multithreading can only be realized when the paradigm is applied across all levels..." (M. Zelkowitz)

Most online dictionaries I consulted showed two definitions - one positive, and one negative. Moreover, the positive sense of the word was usually listed first. From Merriam-Webster's:

exploit (trans. verb) 1 : to make productive use of; to utilize 2 : to make use of meanly or unfairly for one's own advantage

Nonetheless, the negative connotation is undeniably there. If you're looking for a synonym without that negative connotation, you might try leverage (already suggested) or harness.

Divination

1. the practice of attempting to foretell future events or discover hidden knowledge by occult or supernatural means.

2. augury; prophecy: The divination of the high priest was fulfilled.

3. perception by intuition; instinctive foresight.

A more informal word could be Hunch