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Insight Industry and Data Science Guest Lecture at Japan University

On December 16, 2025, Asmarq Co., Ltd. hosted an engaging guest lecture at the Japan University Shibuya Campus on the topic of "Insight Industry and Data Science". The event, part of the course "Introduction to Digital Science" taught by the Graduate School of Management, featured researcher Masayuki Satomura from Asmarq as the keynote speaker.

The Essence of Market Research

During his presentation, Satomura emphasized the critical function of market research in bridging the gap between companies and consumers. He detailed how effective decision-making relies on a comprehensive understanding of issues—from survey design to analysis and ultimately to recommendations. Instead of merely presenting data, it's essential to explore the underlying reasons behind consumer behaviors, transforming insights into actionable strategies.

In the latter part of the lecture, he covered analytical techniques such as regression analysis, factor analysis, and correspondence analysis, promoting the importance of interpreting not just numbers but also the contexts they stem from. Moreover, he highlighted the necessity of structuring data—such as log design and KPI formation—to make it useful for decision-making.

Practical Insights for Students

The Q&A session underscored the skills that professionals need today, such as issue-setting, foundational understanding, and storytelling. Satomura provided practical advice prioritizing the creation of tangible deliverables over merely obtaining qualifications, encouraging students to embrace a hands-on learning approach.

Participation and Feedback

Below are some selected reflections from students who attended the lecture:

• - "I learned that even those with a liberal arts background can excel in data analysis if they remain eager to learn."
• - "Understanding how statistics and analytical methods are used in the workplace encourages me to engage positively with my studies."
• - "Data science is not just about handling numbers; it's a means to understand people and society better."
• - "I realized that the purpose and method of data utilization are crucial rather than just collecting data."
• - "It’s important to read human opinions and emotions from qualitative data, such as open-ended survey responses."
• - "The statement about visualizing data to identify problems is significant, but understanding the reasons behind them is essential for decision-making."

An Interview with Associate Professor Koji Teraoka

Following the lecture, we had the opportunity to interview Associate Professor Koji Teraoka from the Graduate School of Management. Here’s an overview of our conversation:

Focus on Design Thinking and Service Design

Teraoka explained his research interests lie in design thinking and service design within digital business. With nearly 20 years of experience in digital marketing and web services, he's been involved in both quantitative and qualitative surveys related to diverse decision-making. His current aim is to provide learning opportunities that leverage digital technologies to address challenges revealed through research, emphasizing the development of digital talent.

Impacts on Students

When asked about the significance of the lecture, Teraoka stressed that it is vital for students to learn how to interpret customer insights as the first step in choosing appropriate research methods. Rather than focusing solely on technical aspects of data analysis, the course aims to foster a deeper understanding of customers through data.

Reflections on the Event

Teraoka shared his gratification regarding the feedback that indicated students grasped the message about the importance of customer understanding. Furthermore, he expressed enthusiasm about showcasing opportunities for international students in global research, marking it as a significant achievement.

Expectations from Research Companies

Lastly, Teraoka articulated that research companies like Asmarq should help students connect their academic knowledge with practical applications. Fostering a robust collaboration between academia and industry will play a pivotal role in building necessary skills for students as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Conclusion

The guest lecture at Japan University was not just an educational experience but a vital journey bridging theory with practice in the field of market research and data science. Asmarq's initiative highlights the importance of equipping the next generation of leaders with the necessary insights and skills to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.

To learn more about Asmarq’s marketing research services, visit Asmarq.